Bullying has become a significant issue in Pakistani schools, but the root often lies not within the school walls but in the environment children experience at home. While professional development courses for teachers address classroom management and student engagement, they overlook a key factor: the role of parenting in shaping a child’s behavior. In many cases, children learn negative behaviors—teasing, name-calling, or even aggression—from dynamics they observe or experience at home.
For instance, in a typical household, children might witness family members teasing each other or casually using hurtful language. This can instill the idea that mocking others is acceptable, even a way to bond. When carried into school, these habits become a foundation for bullying, leaving teachers to manage behaviors that are already deep-rooted.
Parenting programs, therefore, are essential. Parents play a pivotal role in modeling respect, empathy, and self-discipline. Through structured parenting sessions, they can learn strategies to replace negative interactions with positive, respectful ones. When children are exposed to consistent discipline and compassion at home, they are less likely to engage in bullying behaviors at school.
Focusing on parenting practices—rather than solely on teacher development—offers a long-term solution to the problem of bullying. By building respectful homes, we create respectful schools, ultimately fostering healthier peer interactions and a safer educational environment.
ACCORDING TO THE STATISTICAL RECORD IN RECENT TIMES
- Recent statistics show a concerning rise in student suicides in Pakistan, often linked to academic pressure, bullying, and limited access to mental health support. Studies and reports suggest that incidents of suicide, particularly among teenagers, are increasing due to various stressors, with a significant portion tied to bullying and harassment within schools and communities. For instance, World Health Organization (WHO) data indicates that Pakistan had a suicide rate of 8.9 per 100,000 people in 2019, which is considered high given the socio-cultural stigma around discussing mental health or suicide openly Pakistan Today, Dawn
- This uptick has triggered initiatives such as mental health hotlines by Aman Telehealth and the Taskeen Helpline, which offer confidential support and guidance. These resources aim to provide students and families with support, although awareness and access remain barriers for many, particularly in rural areas. The Express Tribune
- These statistics underscore the need for preventative action, particularly through Parenting Programs that address bullying behaviors originating at home. By creating more supportive environments and fostering empathy and respect early in life, parents can reduce the likelihood of children perpetuating bullying behavior in schools.
