Check for bullying in welfare homes, urges psychologist
THEY are children from broken homes and underprivileged backgrounds who sought shelter in welfare homes. The last thing they need is to be bullied.
But a local study on a welfare home in Perak has revealed worrying findings. About 72% of girls were found to have been bullied by the other girls.
Most, or 60%, of them chose to keep silent about it, according to the study made available to Sunday Star.
“It’s possible that this problem is more widespread because the victims tend to keep mum about their ordeal,” said one of the study’s authors, Universiti Sains Malaysia criminologist and psychologist Assoc Prof Dr Geshina Ayu Mat Saat.
Urging authorities to check on welfare homes, she said even the most hardy and resilient children will be affected by such bullying and may suffer low esteem when they live independently later on.
“The authorities should investigate this but follow ethical procedures.
“Children should participate without fear of reprisal from the bullies or the home for sharing their experiences.
“It is possible that they answer as they think they should to avoid being punished,” said Dr Geshina, who conducted the study with co-authors Ding I Ling from the Perak police and University of the Sunshine Coast lecturer Suzanie Adina Mat Saat.
In 62% of the cases, people known to them bullied the victims.
About 44% of the incidents involved emotional bullying while 29% were physically bullied.
“Victims and their bullies live together, unlike bullying inside and outside schools whereby contact is reduced.
“Victims in welfare homes have nowhere to go to avoid their continued victimisation.
“This develops and sustains vulnerability, as well as bullying traits and aggressive behaviours,” Dr Geshina said, adding that victims may develop a bleak view on life and living.
As for physical bullying, the bodily pain may go away over time but the experience is never forgotten.
“Effects can be severe in the long term regardless of the type of bullying,” she added.
Instead of keeping quiet, Dr Geshina said victims should report to someone who can do something to stop the bullying.
“Victims need to be empowered to stand up for themselves and stop the victimisation.
“If welfare operators and responsible adults are not aware of the culture of bullying in the homes, they can’t address the problem and make homes safer for the girls,” she said.