Bullying : Losing of children's dignity

Dr Manisha Dhami *

Bullying affects more than one third of kids between the ages of 13 and 15 worldwide (UNICEF 2019). One of the most prevalent psychological issues among school-aged youngsters is bullying victimization.

Bullying is an aggressive act that is done on purpose and typically leaves another child feeling hurt. Bullying thrives in situations where the persons involved have unequal power. Children who bully typically have a greater social status or more clout than other children.

Participation in bullying refers to the predominance of bullies, victims, and bully-victims together.

It includes behaviours like physical assault (hitting, kicking, destroying the victim's possessions), assault, intimidation, verbal abuse, social hostility, and in the modern era, bullying also occurs online under the name of cyber bullying. Bullying behaviour is motivated psychologically by a desire to establish social authority.

Bullying and victimization are more frequently associated with mental distress, behavioural issues, and hyperactivity, all of which are linked to a lack of pro social behaviour. Its prevalence can have distressing effects, not only on the person who experiences it but also on the wider community where it occurs.

Adults and students alike are accountable for putting an end to bullying behaviour that is inappropriate. Bullying is a significant and pervasive issue that affects school-aged children and teenagers, and it has both immediate and long-term harmful effects on the bully and the victim.

Common consequences - Bullying often gets worse as a result, and people's self-esteem goes down. Bullied students have worse social, emotional, and physical health, which can lead to depressive symptoms, suicidal thoughts, and loneliness. Researches have discovered that bullying in school has an impact on both the academic achievement of victims and perpetrators.

A key indication of children's well being is the prevalence of bullying. Bullying among children has unavoidably contributed to its recognition as a global problem. The suicide statistics of bullying victims is astounding and concerning.

Bullying among kids draws attention to current social system inefficiencies and the possibility for rising future social instability in the society and schools where kids dwell. Every child has the right to attend school in a setting that is safe, supportive, and of course that upholds their dignity.

Therefore, whether at home or in school, it is important to prioritize this issue. The focus of the initiatives should be on reducing bullying behaviours such as well as assisting children and young people to avoid becoming the subject of bullying.