Bullying in South African schools is a pervasive issue with often tragic outcomes, as evidenced by distressing headlines such as “Pupil stabbed to death at Gauteng school had suffered history of bullying” and “Grade 6 learner commits suicide after bullying.” According to the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study, a substantial 64% to 65% of grade 9 learners in South Africa experience various forms of bullying on a monthly basis.
While the Department of Basic Education introduced the National School Safety Framework in 2015 to tackle this problem, its impact has been limited. As a last resort, the department is advocating the use of Section 2(4) of the Protection from Harassment Act, empowering children to seek protection orders without parental assistance.
Education policy analyst and researcher, Andrea Juan, has shed light on the complex nature of bullying in South African schools. Her studies reveal that bullying often operates in cycles, where individuals may transition from being victims to perpetrators, and vice versa. These “bully-victims” seek power and control as a coping mechanism, highlighting the intricate nature of bullying behavior.
Juan’s research, based on data from 12,154 grade 9 students, underscores the significance of identifying bully-victims as a distinct group from mere perpetrators or victims. It emphasizes the need for a systemic approach to anti-bullying programs, focusing on the entire school environment rather than individual students.
Furthermore, the study illuminates the influence of the school environment on bullying behavior. Students who feel secure and valued at school are less likely to engage in bullying, while those who perceive unfair treatment from teachers are at a higher risk. This underscores the pivotal role of school authorities in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.
The involvement of parents is also crucial. The Department of Basic Education provides resources for parents, offering guidance on educating children about different forms of bullying, recognizing warning signs, and the importance of reporting incidents.
To combat this pervasive issue, Juan advocates for targeted programs rooted in evidence-based insights. By acknowledging the complex realities faced by South African students, comprehensive and effective strategies can be developed to create safer school environments.
In the pursuit of safer schools, it is imperative to move beyond mere awareness and prioritize evidence-based interventions. Through a multifaceted approach involving educators, parents, policymakers, and researchers, South Africa can work towards eradicating the scourge of bullying in its schools.
