In today’s world, we often get to see the ruthless impact of bullying in schools, colleges and even at home. It is time that we sensitize children about the harm such deeds cause to others and the need of the hour is to create an awareness all the time. Bullying is considered a sin and should be eradicated from our society, to create a good environment to study, play and live.
The students of Grade 1- 9 of Global Indian International School, Bangalore conducted an Anti-Bullying campaign for a week, in order to sensitize all the students about the impact of bullying. There was a rally in the school premises where the students went to all the classes, holding posters and placards that emphasised on ‘Being kind, helpful and empathetic’ to one another. There were special assemblies organized for all the classes to create an awareness about anti-bullying. Ms. Garima S, the Student Counsellor at GIIS Bangalore initiated the campaign and delivered an insightful session during the assembly on this sensitive topic. She told the students about the effects of the various unpleasant acts of bullying on the victim, the bully and the bystander. Students presented a skit so as to showcase the negative repercussions of bullying others. They gave affirmative suggestions to stop bullying anywhere it is seen.

Bullying: Its types, causes and impact

Bullying is in fact, repeated unwanted, aggressive behaviour towards someone for no apparent reason. This involves hurting someone on purpose. Students were made to understand about the various types of bullying that are prevalent in our society. They may be physical, verbal, social or cyber bullying mediums, the impact is really bad and could lead to depression too. Bullies come from harsh environments, they have low prosocial behaviour and exhibit lack of empathy. Victims’ exhibit fear, could have suffered abuse in early years and are often submissive even before they're picked on. The bystander effect refers to the phenomenon in which the greater the number of people present, the less likely people are to help a person in distress. The impact of bullying on the 3 categories of people are very negative and leads to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, loneliness, lack of proper sleep, eating disorders, poor social and peer relationships and even psychotic problems.

Stop Bullying: Be a Buddy

There are solutions to fight bullying, whether at school, home or even a public place in the most appropriate manner. Students were encouraged to be confident and stand against those who bully. They should stay away from groups of people who reward you for bullying others. Practice empathizing with others. Make amends whenever a situation arises. Treat all students with respect and empathy. Students were advised to report about severe and repeated bullying to parents, teachers or the principal. They were told to be an upstander and speak up than be a spectator. GIIS stands firm against bullying. Let’s encourage students to be a buddy and not a bully.