Bullying is a widespread issue that impacts individuals of all ages and causes significant emotional and psychological harm to those affected. Out of 50 students, 25% of them are struggling with bullying. It also creates an environment of fear and anxiety, making those victims feel unsafe in spaces they may be required to inhabit-like school or their other environment. The effects of bullying can extend to long-term issues like low self-esteem, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Bullying disrupts the lives of those involved and those in their lives like family and friends. Addressing bullying and the issue is vital for creating a more empathetic and supportive environment for everyone.
Mr. Lunde, Capital High School’s Dean of Students, acknowledged that bullying is prevalent, especially when staff members aren’t around. He noted that many incidents often occur on social media, prompting him to involve parents and implement a “refrain from contact order.”Mr. Lunde emphasized that serious bullying can result in those students from attending, leading to suspensions when necessary. He also outlined a safety plan that includes switching schedules of the bully, notifying campus security to increase monitoring, and providing a safe space for victims. He encourages students to seek help from peers or staff members, as all are trained and equipped to respond.
Mr. Terry Rose, Capital High School’s PE/health teacher and football coach, explained what bullying means to him, whether he’s seen bullying happen in the hallways, and how he reacted when he saw or heard about it. Mr. Rose said, ‘’It’s frustrating. My ultimate goal is to stop people from bullying, and to help those who are being bullied to stand up for themselves in the right way.” Mr. Rose also said,” I have multiple times asked the person why they feel it’s important to put someone else down. I wanted to get that person’s point of view on why they feel it’s ok to put someone else down, so I can get a better understanding of both sides.” Most bullies, bully because they have a bad home life or they have been bullied before and are just mirroring what bullying that has or is happening to them. There are different reasons why people bully, including:
- 1. wanting to dominate others and improve their social status
- 2. having low self-esteem and wanting to feel better about themselves
- 3. having a lack of remorse or failing to recognize their behavior as a problem
- 4. feeling angry, frustrated, or jealous
- 5. struggling socially
- 6. being the victim of bullying themselves
