School-Based Violence and Prevalence of Bullying Behaviour Among Secondary School Students in Punjab, Pakistan
Abstract
This study investigated the awareness, causes, and prevalence of school-based violence and bullying behavior among secondary school students in Province of Punjab, Pakistan. Four research questions and corresponding hypotheses were formulated to guide the study which utilized a descriptive survey research methodology. The study population included all students in schools across Punjab Province with a sample of 200 respondents randomly selected. Data collection involved administering a structured questionnaire to the participants. Subsequently, the collected data were analyzed using simple percentages, frequency distribution tables, mean and standard deviation to address the hypotheses. The study findings indicated that students in secondary schools were acquainted of bullying behavior, identifying prominent causes and acknowledging its impact on students. Additionally, the research highlighted the common occurrence of bullying behavior among students in the study area. Overall, the study provides insights into the dynamics of school-based violence and bullying behavior among secondary school students in Punjab, Pakistan. Some recommendations were stated as the way forward and they are: The schools and home should work with the counsellor collaboratively to instill good values in their students. The counsellor should inform parents to have skills and knowledge in classroom management and control. There should be school-wide education, training and bullying prevention programs, through behavior modification theories. The school should provide counselling and support for students at risk of being involved in bullying. Students who bully often need intensive support or intervention, so it is important for schools and social service agencies to work together. The counsellor and teachers must recognize the danger of violent films and discourage their children/students from watching them and use insight training to stop such viewing.
