PROTECTING CHILDREN IN SCHOOL FROM BULLYING

Caroline L. Montes

Bullying is the most common problem particularly in a school setting. We may even wonder why it is a serious problem in schools and why it is a prevalent form of youth violence. Perhaps, for the youngsters, it is seen as part of their “growing up”.

Most children experience bullying in school due to the peer influences and youth relationships. Oftentimes, victims are those who may be younger, differently-abled, less psychologically confident or otherwise vulnerable and those who think are inferior. While those who attack are the children who think are powerful and superior. Bullying typically takes place in unstructured setting like the canteen, playground, school gym and hallways.

It is important for everyone to know and understand the various types of bullying. First is the Physical Bullying which is the most prevalent form of aggression which includes sudden physical contact and behaviors hitting and kicking which the victims have no means to defend themselves. The Psychological Bullying causes damage to a victim’s emotional well-being and any similar acts that create adverse impact on the psychological well-being. Cyber Bullying is any conduct resulting to harassment, intimidation or humiliation through electronic means or other technology such as, but not limited to texting, email, instant messaging, chatting, social networks and other platforms or format. These are just a few examples of bullying.

How can we prevent bullying in school, where the children may feel safe? First and foremost,

students need to have a positive climate where they can focus on learning for them to be successful in lives. A positive climate reduces stress and potential aggression to children.

Another preventive measure is that the school must organize Child Protection Policy and set up a Child Protection Corner. Organize peer education in school and include bullying in the homeroom discussion. Encourage and support Parent-Teachers Associations to raise education sessions and awareness on children’s right, bullying and positive discipline. Positive discipline does not mean punishment. It begins with setting long term goals that the teacher want to have to their student’s adult lives.

Nowadays, there are campaigns and events to prevent and stop bullying throughout the world. Even the Department of Education is conducting a nationwide information dissemination campaign on positive discipline and non-violent discipline in classroom management, anger and stress management and gender sensitivity. We, as bystanders or as common person, may also play an important role in responding to bullying. Small steps to oppose the behavior can reduce it, as doing nothing can encourage it to continue.

Regardless of what type of bullying and preventive measures, it takes consistent action by everyone- parents, students, school staff and school administrators, to prevent bullying from happening. Since it has a negative effect on children’s wellbeing, that is, it could make the children feel afraid, anxious, stressed and depressed. They may have thoughts about hurting themselves, much worse, think about suicide. They may have trouble with their school works or with their mood, energy level and loss of appetite. This is not to be ignored, as ignoring it can become worse overtime.

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The author is from DepEd Angeles City