Understanding bullying, a community concern
Bullying affects countless individuals, creating an environment of fear and isolation. Discover effective strategies to combat bullying, support victims, and foster a community of kindness and understanding.

According to Childline SA, bullying is a pervasive issue that affects children and individuals of all ages, leading to feelings of fear, degradation, and worthlessness.
It can create an environment where victims feel unsafe and reluctant to engage in social activities, often questioning their self-worth.
Read more: Four types of bullying all parents need to know about
Bullying is unacceptable, and it manifests in various harmful ways, including name-calling, physical aggression, theft, and emotional manipulation
Bullying can take many forms, including verbal abuse, name-calling and spreading rumours, physical aggression, hitting, pinching, or pushing, social manipulation, excluding individuals from groups or taking friends away, and cyberbullying (using technology to harass or intimidate.
These actions not only harm the victim but also create a toxic environment for everyone involved.
If you find yourself a victim of bullying, it is crucial to speak up. While it may feel vulnerable to share your experience, reporting the bullying is essential for stopping it. Here are some steps to consider:
- Talk to Someone: Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or teacher. Sharing your experience can provide support and help you find solutions.
- Stay Safe: During school breaks, remain in areas with other people, as bullies often avoid being seen. If you feel threatened on the bus, sit near the driver or other adults.
- Document Incidents: If bullying occurs at school, report it to a teacher and ask for it to be documented. Inform your parents about the situation.
- Use Technology wisely. Be cautious about sharing your phone number. If you receive threatening messages, inform your parents, as such actions can be illegal
Also read: Parktown Girls learner stands firm against cyberbullying
If you witness someone else being bullied, it’s important to act.
Report the incident to a teacher discreetly, as victims often need allies to help them feel supported.
If you find yourself engaging in bullying behaviour, it is vital to reflect on your actions. Ask yourself:
- What motivates my behaviour?
- How would I feel if I were in the victim’s position?
- What steps can I take to change my behaviour?
Recognising the impact of your actions is the first step toward change. Speaking to someone you trust can also help you navigate this process.
Bullying is a serious issue that requires collective action from individuals, families, and communities. By fostering open communication and support, we can create a safer environment for everyone. Remember, no one deserves to be bullied, and there are always ways to seek help and make a difference.
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Related article: Stand united against cyberbullying