Name: Dimpho Mothakgodi

Student number: 11256427

Unique number: 779357

Module code: ENG1514

Assignment: 03

Due date: 04 August 2023

Bullying has become a pervasive issue in South African schools.

Bullying is unwanted, aggressive behaviour among school aged children that involves a real
or perceived power imbalance. The behaviour is repeated or has the potential to be
repeated over time. And both kids who are bullied and who bully others may have a serious
lasting problem. Bullying has become a pervasive issue in South African schools, causing
significant harm to the well-being and academic achievements of students. As the
phenomenon continues to escalate, it is crucial to evaluate the roles and responsibilities of
the Department of Basic Education, school authorities, and parents in tackling this issue.
This essay will explore why bullying is increasing in South African schools and argue for the
shared responsibility among these stakeholders in addressing and preventing bullying.

Being bullied has many negative effects and it can lead to not only mental problems, but
also physical problems which at time may not be noticeable. Children and teens all deal with
being bullied in many ways but unfortunately, many children and teens do not speak out
about being bullied and they do not get the help they deserve in order to deal with bullying.
Many steps have been taken in order to help with those who are experiencing bulling/cyber
bullying. Preventing bullying has become a big issue not only in classrooms, but also national
wide. Being able to define bullying and seeing the effects it has on kids is key to knowing
what prevention tool are needed to help the children and teens who are victims of bullying

Numerous factors contribute to the rising incidence of bullying within South African schools.
Firstly, social inequality and economic disparities prevalent in the country perpetuate a
culture of aggression and dominance. These disparities may fuel frustrations and
resentment, resulting in an outlet for students through bullying. Children who are
marginalised or stigmatized are more likely to experience bullying, and those who bully
other may have learned their behaviour from their families or other social groups. And
those children who bullies never face any legal, academic or social consequences and they
continuously bully other kids.

The Department of Education holds a primary responsibility to address and mitigate the rise
of bullying within schools. The department should prioritise the development of and
implementation of comprehensive anti-bullying policies and guidelines. Such policies would
include clear definitions of bullying, reporting procedures, consequences for perpetrators
and support systems of victims. Moreover, the department must invest in training programs
for teachers to identify signs of bullying and implement preventative measures. By taking
these proactive steps, the Department of Basic Education can create a safer and more
inclusive learning environment for students.

School authorities, including principals, teachers and school governing body, play a crucial
role in preventing and addressing bullying incidents within their institution. It is their
responsibility to foster culture of open communication and respect, where students feel
comfortable reporting incidents of bullying. Additionally, schools should establish
disciplinary measures that are consistently applied, ensuring that perpetrators face
appropriate consequences. Furthermore, school authorities should focus on implementing
preventive strategies such as educational programs that promote empathy, conflict
resolution and tolerance. By taking these measures, school authorities create a supportive
environment that discourages bullying and helps victims recover.

The schools must make sure that parents are aware of their children being bullied or bullies
and enforcing anti-bully laws as part of the code of conduct for learners. They can even try
to make a box of complains/problems or concerns where learners can report their concerns
and offer suggestions as well. Even holding some school conferences that are going to raise
awareness of bullying problem in schools. The school can also help bullies too, with anger
control and the development of empathy. Offer a program that teaches about peer relations
and loving one another without criticizing nor mocking other children and making their
learning environment an unsafe place.

Parents also bear an essential role in combating bullying within South African schools. It is
the responsibility of parents to educate their children about empathy, respect and the
consequences of their actions. Engaging in open dialogue with children allows parents to
understand their concerns and experiences, making it easier to identify signs of bullying.
Furthermore, parents should actively encourage their children to report instances of
bullying, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility in creating a safe
environment. By fostering strong connections with their children and staying proactive,
parents become advocates for their child’s well-being and contribute to the prevention of
bullying. It is the duty of parents to educate their children about negative consequences of
bullying to prevent engaging in such behaviours. They should encourage children to speak
up if they witness or experience bullying in school. They should also be aware of signs of
depression and anxiety in their children and do not hesitate to seek for professional help or
counselling for their children.

All three stakeholders- the Department of Education, school authorities and parents should
be involved in combating bullying due to the synergistic effects of their contribution. The
Department of basic Education’s involvement is necessary to establish a holistic framework
that enforces consistent anti-bullying policies across all schools. Schools’ authorities, being
closest to students, are equipped to create and maintain a safe learning environment
through rules and guidelines, interventions strategies. For parents, their participation is
invaluable as their guidance and influence directly shape children’s behaviour and
perspectives, both within and outside school context. Active parental involvement is crucial
to reinforce the anti-bullying message and encourage open communication.

In conclusion, the increasing prevalence of bullying in South African schools demands urgent
attention from all stakeholders involved. The Department of basic Education, school
authorities and parents all hold significant roles and responsibilities in tackling this issue. By
collectively prioritising anti- bullying policies, preventive measures and fostering open
communication, South African schools can become safe and inclusive environment for all
students, ultimately achieving better educational outcomes and improved overall well-
being.
Declaration

I Dimpho Mothakgodi
Student number: 11256427 Module code: ENG1514

Declare that…...
1. I understand what plagiarism entails and am aware of the University’s policy in this
regard.
2. I declare that this assignment is my own original work. Where I used someone else’s
work, whether a printed source, the internet or any other source, I give the proper
acknowledgement and include a complete reference list.
3. I did not use another current or previous student’s work, submitting it as my own
4. I did not allow and will not allow anyone to copy my work with the intention of
submitting it as his or her own work.

Signature: D. Mothakgodi Date: 04 August 2023

References

https://www.education.gov.za

https://www.classace.io/answers/write-an-essay-of-1000-1200-word-in-which-you-
discuss-why-bullying-is-increasing-in-our-south-african-schools-and-what-you-think-
the-role-and-responsibilities-of-the-deparment-of-education-schools-and-parents-
are-dealing-with-this

https://www.edubirdie.com/examples/bullying-facts-statistics-prevention-and-
effects