Both the perpetrator and the victim are children!

According to UNICEF’s 2024 report, bullying behaviors deeply affect children’s quality of life. Head of the Child Development Department, Prof. Nurper Ülküer, stated, “The 2024 data from the Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK) also reveals the seriousness of the situation. According to TÜİK’s 2024 research, one in every seven children aged 6–17 is subjected to peer bullying more than once.”

Prof. Ülküer emphasized, “Peer bullying is an important component of violence against children. Children who experience violence become more likely to resort to violence themselves later in life.”

Prof. Nurper Ülküer from Üsküdar University’s Faculty of Health Sciences evaluated the relationship between violence against children and peer bullying during the World Anti-Bullying Week, observed between 10–14 November, drawing attention to this year’s theme, “The Power of Kindness.”

All forms of violence against children continue

Referring to the one-year evaluation of the Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children, held last year in Bogotá, Colombia, Prof. Ülküer assessed the steps countries have taken:

“A year ago, countries committed to completely eliminating violence against children. During the online meeting hosted by the World Health Organization, the extent to which these commitments were fulfilled was discussed. Many countries have introduced serious legal sanctions, particularly regarding ‘corporal punishment.’ Strong steps have been taken in prevention, monitoring, and awareness-raising.

All forms of violence against children, which are neglect, abuse, and maltreatment, remain urgent issues requiring immediate action from humanity.”

Violence from child to child: Peer bullying

Prof. Ülküer stressed that peer bullying, which is violence from one child to another, is not limited to physical harm: “Bullying occurs when an individual intentionally and repeatedly harms or disturbs another person. This does not only involve physical contact; it may also include verbal attacks, exclusion, or digital bullying. Bullying is typically characterized by three key elements: intent, repetition, and a power imbalance.”

One in every seven children in Türkiye faces bullying

Highlighting UNICEF’s 2024 findings once again, Prof. Ülküer said: “TÜİK’s 2024 data clearly shows the seriousness of the problem. According to their research, one in every seven children aged 6–17 has been subjected to peer bullying multiple times. Children with special needs are at a significantly higher risk. Bullying victims show increased school absenteeism, decreased academic performance, and may develop lifelong trauma.”

Drawing attention to this alarming picture, she added: “Peer bullying is a significant part of the broader issue of violence against children. Children who witness or experience violence are more likely to become perpetrators of violence later on. Therefore, preventing violence against children is critical for preventing peer bullying as well.”

Strong parents play a key role in preventing bullying

Referring to the work of institutions such as the UK-based Anti Bullying Alliance (ABA), Prof. Ülküer emphasized that strengthening parents is one of the most effective strategies in preventing bullying. Prof. Ülküer stated that one of the most important factors in preventing peer bullying is “strong parent-child communication,” noting that parents, as a child’s first teachers, must develop conscious communication skills, which are crucial for the early recognition and prevention of bullying.

Recommendations for parents in combating peer bullying

Offering some practical suggestions to parents, Prof. Ülküer continued her remarks as follows: “Set aside time to talk with your child calmly and without judgment. Ask open-ended questions; questions such as ‘Can you tell me what happened?’ help them express themselves. Notice emotional changes; pay attention to signs like not wanting to go to school or losing belongings. Remind your child who is being bullied that it is not their fault and that you can solve this together. Explain the importance of kindness to your child who witnesses bullying; encourage them to inform an adult and support the child who is being bullied. Speak calmly with your child who is involved in bullying; help them understand the consequences of their behavior and learn the correct way to act. Collaborate with the school and follow the process together. Be a model of empathy and respect; even when you are angry, behave kindly and understandingly.”

Every school should have a ‘bullying prevention officer’

Highlighting the importance of school systems and education policies in preventing peer bullying, Prof. Ülküer said, “Teacher training, both pre-service and in-service, must include content on combating peer bullying. Every school should have a ‘bullying prevention officer.’ Bullying incidents should be documented and reported quickly to the relevant authorities. Schools must also maintain strong communication with parents.”

Most children who bully others were once victims themselves

Emphasizing that psychological support must be provided not only to victims but also to children who bully others in order to break the cycle of bullying, Prof. Ülküer stated: “Violence breeds violence. Most children who bully others have previously been victims of other forms of violence. Therefore, investigating the underlying reasons for their behavior and providing necessary psychosocial support is extremely important.”

A Peer Bullying Prevention Fund should be established

Prof. Ülküer listed her solution proposals as follows:

“Policy-oriented research should be conducted; answers should be sought not only for ‘who’ and ‘what’ but also for ‘why’ and ‘how.’

Monitoring and evaluation studies should scientifically review existing prevention programs.

A national strategy plan and budget should be prepared in line with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

A Peer Bullying Prevention Fund should be established to ensure the sustainability of awareness initiatives.”

Let’s use the power of kindness and prevent peer bullying

Based on all these reasons, Prof. Ülküer noted that the Children’s Movement launched within the Turkish Grand National Assembly has established the Peer Bullying Prevention Commission within the Parliament, adding: “The Commission has begun its work with a participatory perspective. It will serve as an important driving force in implementing these recommendations. It is an important step that must be supported. Let’s use the power of kindness and prevent peer bullying.”