A video doing the rounds on social media showing a young girl being bullied by a group of boys is disturbing in more ways than one.
Besides highlighting the boys’ shameful behaviour, and those egging them on, the circulation of the video is a constant reminder to the victim of her humiliation and pain.
It is heartbreaking to see.
That only one of the alleged culprits’ parents showed up at the school when summoned to discuss the matter calls into question the parenting, or lack thereof, of the boys.
The video shows the girl being followed off a school bus, slapped in the face and chased by at least five boys while others laugh and record the incident.
A second video shows her in tears as two boys slap her again, cheered on by classmates.
While the perpetrators must be dealt with appropriately, those watching, cheering and gleefully recording the abuse must also be dealt with because it is their behaviour that empowers the bullies to do what they do.
They should have stuck up for the victim instead.
Bullying can cause long-term emotional damage to the victims, and even suicide in extreme cases, and cannot be ignored.
Eastern Cape social development MEC Bukiwe Fanta has promised to implement broader anti-bullying programmes at schools.
“Bullying is not just a school issue; it is a societal problem that requires our collective action,” she said on Saturday.
“We must educate our children about respect, empathy and the consequences of their actions.”
She said new workshops and support systems would be developed with schools, parents and community organisations.
Bullying usually has its roots at home. It is behaviour witnessed or experienced by a child who then takes that sense of helplessness and anger out on others perceived as vulnerable.
While bullying will never be erased from schools, it is our job as parents to talk to our children about bullying — what it is and how to deal with it — and make sure they know to speak up if they ever become a target.
Importantly, we must also teach them not to be silent spectators when someone is being bullied but to have the courage and conviction to stand up for the victim.
The disgraceful conduct showcased in the video must be addressed urgently by all concerned.
With gender-based violence such a huge problem in SA, this type of behaviour by young boys is beyond disturbing.
The Herald
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.