In an increasingly conflict-ridden world, schools must be the safe and supportive space where all students can thrive to build a promising future. However, a significant number of children and adolescents around the world face various forms of school violence, including online cyberbullying.
On the International Day against Violence and Bullying at School, Including Cyberbullying, we join the international community to shed light on the profound impact of school-related violence on mental health and call for the creation of safe learning environments for everyone, everywhere.
Infringement of children’s rights
School-related violence is an infringement of children’s rights, and of their rights to education, health, and well-being. While physical injuries are apparent, the effects on mental health often remain concealed and inadequately addressed. These include such effects as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The direct connection between mental health and violence in school cannot be ignored. Research shows that school bullying has devastating consequences on learners’ health and academic achievement. It increases the risk of early school leaving.
The latest Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) results indicate that pupils’ sense of belonging at school is declining and (cyber)bullying is widespread.
Around 20% of school children experience mental health problems, in particular anxiety and depression.
The consequences of school violence, including cyberbullying, extend to the development of risky, aggressive, and anti-social behaviours among youth. This has the potential to perpetuate the cycle of harm into future generations.
With adverse impacts on academic performance and increasing dropout rates, these repercussions have far-reaching implications for the success and well-being of students, their families, and the entire community.
