93 online
 
Most Popular Choices
Share on Facebook 28 Printer Friendly Page More Sharing Summarizing
OpEdNews Op Eds    H2'ed 3/11/25

The Silent Epidemic: How Bullying in 2024 is Shaping a Generation


Christina Dion Sabaratnam
Message Christina Dion Sabaratnam


6 things to do if you are being bullied A short video that gives you six top tips about what to do if you are being bullied.
(Image by YouTube, Channel: Anti-Bullying Alliance)
  Details   DMCA

Bullying remains a pervasive issue affecting students worldwide, with recent statistics shedding light on its prevalence and impact. In the United States, approximately one in five students (19.2%) report being bullied, with higher rates observed among female students (21.8%) compared to their male counterparts (16.7%).

Globally, a comprehensive study spanning 83 countries found that 30.5% of adolescents have experienced bullying.

This alarming figure underscores the universal nature of the problem, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries.

In Australia, the situation is equally concerning. A recent survey revealed that nearly 60% of Victorian councillors reported experiencing bullying or harassment in their roles, highlighting a 'toxic' culture within local councils.

Additionally, Australian schoolchildren are among the most bullied globally, with one in six students reporting instances of bullying at school.

couriermail.com.au

The consequences of bullying are profound, affecting mental health, academic performance, and overall well-being. Children's biggest social fears include being made fun of, left out, and teased about their appearance, leading to anxiety and diminished self-esteem.

Recent Insights into Bullying Trends and Impacts

heraldsun.com.au

Victoria's 'toxic' council bullying culture revealed

2 days ago

couriermail.com.au

Family's heartache: Every day we look back and think 'why us?'

104 days ago

nypost.com

Growing number of NYC students feel unsafe as gang activity, bullying uptick in schools: survey



Bullying is no longer just a childhood issue-- it is a global crisis that threatens the mental well-being and future of countless individuals. The statistics of 2024 paint a grim picture, but they also serve as a wake-up call. Every cruel word, every act of exclusion, and every online attack leaves an invisible scar that can last a lifetime.

Yet, there is hope. Change begins when bystanders become upstanders, when schools enforce zero-tolerance policies, and when victims find their voices instead of their silence. Parents, teachers, and communities must come together to break the cycle of bullying. This means creating safe spaces, encouraging open conversations, and fostering empathy in young minds. Schools need to go beyond anti-bullying posters and truly enforce protective policies, while social media platforms must take greater responsibility in combating cyberbullying.

Moreover, society must shift its mindset. Bullying is not just "kids being kids." It is a form of psychological violence that has long-term effects on self-esteem, academic performance, and mental health. A bullied child today can become an anxious adult tomorrow. Ignoring the issue is no longer an option.

If we continue to dismiss bullying as an inevitable part of growing up, we risk raising a generation plagued by anxiety, fear, and self-doubt. But if we take action-- through education, awareness, and unwavering support-- we can build a world where kindness overpowers cruelty, where inclusion replaces exclusion, and where no child, teen, or adult ever feels powerless again.

Must Read 2   Valuable 2   Supported 1  
Rate It | View Ratings

Christina Dion Sabaratnam Social Media Pages: Facebook page url on login Profile not filled in       Twitter page url on login Profile not filled in       Linkedin page url on login Profile not filled in       Instagram page url on login Profile not filled in

Enjoying blending analytical insights with compelling storytelling to engage readers and spark meaningful discussions.
Go To Commenting
The views expressed herein are the sole responsibility of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of this website or its editors.
Writers Guidelines

 
Contact AuthorContact Author Contact EditorContact Editor Author PageView Authors' Articles
Support OpEdNews

OpEdNews depends upon can't survive without your help.

If you value this article and the work of OpEdNews, please either Donate or Purchase a premium membership.

STAY IN THE KNOW
If you've enjoyed this, sign up for our daily or weekly newsletter to get lots of great progressive content.
Daily Weekly     OpEd News Newsletter

Name
Email
   (Opens new browser window)
 

Most Popular Articles by this Author:     (View All Most Popular Articles by this Author)

The Silent Epidemic: How Bullying in 2024 is Shaping a Generation

The Magic of John Green's Books and Why They Stay

To View Comments or Join the Conversation:

Tell A Friend