The problem of the normalization of School Bullying

Understood as a fundamental part of childhood, access to a school education is already a reality for the majority of boys and girls around the planet. School is understood as the first socialization environment, in addition to the place where we receive a fundamental education that will prepare us for the problems and difficulties of daily life and everyday.

For this reason, all fathers, mothers and educators trust in a good harmonious environment in which boys and girls enjoy their schooling. However, one problem has plagued classrooms and playgrounds for decades: bullying. Bullying is a pattern of harmful and repetitive behavior directed toward a person or group of people that may include verbal, physical, social and/or cyberbullying. It is a very harmful behavior for those who experience it.

In recent years, the problem of bullying has been discussed as something very intrinsic to schooling due to its normalization and social desensitization. In In this article, we are going to talk about the problem of normalizing bullying and what consequences this has for schools and society..

The normalization of bullying

Bullying should in no way be considered a rite of passage or a harmless and normal part of childhood and adolescence. The normalization of bullying manifests itself in several ways. One of the most common is the belief that bullying is simply a normal stage of growing up and that victims must learn to deal with it on their own. This idea, however, is dangerously wrong. Normalizing bullying opens the door for it to continue happening and perpetuates the cycle of abuse.

Another form of normalization is by minimizing bullying, considering it as “children's things” or “children's games.” This ignores the emotional and psychological impact on victims and reinforces these bullying behaviors among perpetrators. The passive spectator also plays a fundamental role in its normalization; the people who witness bullying but do not intervene. Silence and inaction give the bully more strength.

To adequately address the problem of bullying, we must recognize normalization as a fundamental obstacle. Normalization not only allows bullying to persist, it also contributes to a toxic school environment where empathy and respect are replaced by indifference and cruelty.

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Causes of the normalization of bullying

To effectively combat the normalization of bullying, it is essential to understand the underlying causes that allow this worrying trend to persist in schools. Some of the factors that contribute to its normalization are:

1. Lack of awareness

In many cases, the normalization of bullying stems from a lack of awareness about the seriousness of bullies' actions and the impact they have on victims. Society often minimizes bullying or fails to recognize it as a serious problem., leading to normalization.

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2. culture of indifference

The indifference towards the suffering of victims of bullying is a key factor in its normalization. When people don't intervene or report harassment, it perpetuates the idea that it is acceptable behavior.

3. Lack of education and awareness

Education and awareness are essential to addressing bullying. If students, parents, and teachers are not given information about what bullying is and how to prevent it, it is more likely to become normalized.

4. group pressure

Teenagers often face strong peer pressure. They may engage in bullying to fit in or to avoid becoming victims themselves.. This group dynamic can lead to the normalization of bullying.

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5. Desensitization

Over time, continued exposure to bullying can lead to desensitization, where people stop reacting appropriately to victims' suffering.

Fight against the normalization of bullying

Addressing the normalization of bullying is essential to creating a safe and healthy school environment for all students. Fortunately, there are effective strategies to combat this harmful trend. In conclusion, let's explore some concrete measures that can make a difference:

1. Education and awareness:

As already mentioned, education is key to combating the normalization of bullying. Schools must implement bullying education programs that teach students about the importance of empathy, respect and inclusion.

2. Encourage reporting

It is essential to create an environment where students feel safe to report bullying. This involves promoting confidentiality and ensuring that there is no retaliation.

3. Early intervention

Educators and parents should intervene early when they suspect a student is being bullied. The sooner the problem is addressed, the better the outcome.

4. Conflict resolution programs

Schools can implement conflict resolution programs that teach students skills to manage tensions and differences peacefully.

5. Awareness campaigns

Awareness campaigns can help change school culture by fostering empathy and understanding of the consequences of bullying. It is important to promote changes that arise from empathy, not from fear of punishment or sanction.

6. Support for victims

Victims of bullying need emotional and psychological support. Schools must provide resources to help these victims recover and encourage the generation of healthy social bonds.

7. Community involvement

Communities must also get involved in the fight against bullying. They can organize events, talks and activities to promote awareness and prevention.

Conclusions

Combating the normalization of bullying is a collective effort that involves students, parents, educators, community leaders, and society as a whole. By taking concrete steps and promoting a culture of respect and empathy, we can eradicate normalizing bullying and creating a school environment where all students feel safe and valued.