Teenagers who are bullied are prone to depression, anxiety, poor academic performance and low-self esteem. Picture: File
While Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube, in her Budget vote speech in Parliament on Tuesday, said she plans to prioritise making the school environment a safe space for pupils, Affinity Health’s chief executive Murray Hewlett emphasised that bullying remains very high on school premises.
The health insurance company head cited a Human Sciences Research Council research paper, titled “Bullies, victims and bully-victims in South African schools: examining the risk factors”, which reveals that a measured 36.3% of pupils are involved in bullying; 19.3% are victims of bullying; 8.2% are perpetrators; and 8.7% shape-shift as both victim and perpetrator.
“These studies show that bullying is rampant in South African schools and indicate that over one-third of students are affected by bullying in some capacity,” said Hewlett.
With such shocking numbers, it is evident bullying is not only affecting schools’ safety, but the emotional, physical and psychological well-being of victims is at stake, said Hewlett.
Victims are likely to fall into depression, anxiety and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which eventually spirals into their poor academic performance and low-self esteem – they struggle with confidence.
“Bullying can severely affect a teenager’s academic performance, making it difficult for students to concentrate in class. Victims might avoid school altogether to escape bullying, resulting in increased absenteeism. Victims may withdraw from their peers and avoid social events to protect themselves from further harm. This isolation can hinder the development of crucial social skills and lead to loneliness.
“The relentless nature of bullying can severely damage a teenager’s self-esteem and sense of identity. Constant negative feedback and ridicule can make victims believe the negative things said about them, leading to low self-worth. This damaged self-esteem can persist into adulthood, affecting personal and professional relationships,” said Hewlett.
The impact of bullying often extends to adulthood “because adults who were bullied as teenagers often carry emotional scars into their adult lives”.
“They might experience ongoing mental health issues and have difficulty forming trusting relationships. The trauma of bullying can also affect their professional lives, leading to decreased job satisfaction and performance,” said Hewlett.
To overcome the trauma of bullying, parents are urged to form a strong support system of family, friends and teachers; and to seek therapy for the wellbeing of their teenage kids.
Hewlett furthermore encouraged parents to boost the self-confidence of teenage victims, including finding various coping mechanisms – including exercising, art and meditation, which can help control anxiety.
He added that educating about bullying heightens awareness of this growing problem and helps builds the courage of victims to speak up against their bullies and create a safe school environment.
“Understanding bullying and becoming an advocate can empower teens and help create a safer environment for themselves and others. Educate teens about their rights and the anti-bullying policies at their school or community. Encourage them to speak up against bullying, whether it’s happening to them or others,” said Hewlett.
The Star
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