The influence of learner bullying behaviours on teachers in selected schools in Ehlanzeni district
South African schools seem to be experiencing an increase in teacher-targeted bullying (TTB) incidents. Previous studies conducted in South Africa and abroad have proved that teacher-targeted bullying is a serious challenge in schools that needs immediate intervention. This study aimed at exploring the influence of learners’ bullying behaviour on teachers in selected schools in Ehlanzeni District in Mpumalanga Province. A qualitative approach was applied in this investigation, and a sample of six teachers was purposefully selected from three high schools in the District. The data were analysed using thematic analysis. The objectives that guided the study in obtaining subjective experiences from teachers were: to determine the types of bullying behaviour learners use against teachers; to explore the influence learners’ bullying behaviour has on teachers; and to explore strategies to assist teachers who experience learners’ bullying behaviour to better manage the situation in selected schools in Ehlanzeni District. Findings revealed that teacher-targeted bullying is occurring in the three selected schools that took part in the study. Teachers reported to have experienced verbal bullying, physical bullying, psychological bullying, cyberbullying and sexual bullying, which normally take place in the classroom or elsewhere on the school premises. These experiences reportedly evoked disturbing emotions, affected teachers’ lives at school and their personal lives, and undermined their professional standing. Findings further indicated that there are no strategic interventions put in place by schools or the Department of Basic Education to assist teachers who are victims of teacher-targeted bullying. Teachers believed that a policy and disciplinary committee that saw them being provided with professional help, that suspended the bully and took the bullying seriously could effectively help in handling teacher-targeted bullying in the schools. They believed that if the Department of Education could place police from the South African Police Services (SAPS) and social workers at school, the environment would be safe. Findings revealed that teachers would like the Department of Basic Education to effect strategies to discipline learners, develop programmes to assist both parents and learners, and come up with ways to suspend learners. Appropriate channels to report teacher-targeted bullying would be effective in handling this matter.
Learner bullying, Bullying, Teacher-targeted bullying, Learners' bullying behaviour
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