The Impact of School Bullying and Anti-Bullying Programs on Student Behaviour

Abstract

School bullying remains a significant threat to adolescent well-being, academic achievement, and social development. Despite the widespread implementation of anti-bullying policies in schools, bullying continues to manifest in physical, verbal, relational, and cyber forms. This study explores the impact of school bullying and the effectiveness of anti-bullying programs on student behaviour using a mixed-methods approach. Twenty secondary school students participated through surveys and semi-structured interviews. Results reveal that 80% of participants experienced at least one form of bullying in the past year. While schools have implemented preventive programs, many students remain unaware of them or perceive them as ineffective. Thematic insights show that students experience emotional trauma, distrust in school support systems, and advocate for empathy-based interventions. These findings call for culturally responsive, whole-school approaches that include peer engagement, teacher training, and emotional learning integration.