School bullying and its impact on students' psychological and social adjustment, and the role of the social worker in confronting it

Abstract

This research addresses the phenomenon of school bullying as a serious behavioral problem threatening students within the educational environment. It negatively impacts their psychological and social adjustment, causing serious psychological disorders such as anxiety, depression, social isolation, low self-confidence, and difficulty interacting with others.

The research aims to identify the widespread manifestations and forms of school bullying, uncover the psychological and social factors that contribute to its emergence, clarify its impact on students' psychological and social adjustment, and identify the pivotal role of social workers in addressing this phenomenon. The research relied on a descriptive analytical approach by collecting and analyzing relevant literature and previous studies.

The research concluded that bullying is a growing phenomenon that leads to poor self- and social adjustment among students. The results confirmed that victims of bullying suffer from low academic achievement due to a persistent feeling of insecurity within school, while bullies themselves often suffer from behavioral and emotional disorders resulting from unstable family environments. In light of this, the social worker's pivotal role in combating this phenomenon is highlighted by providing psychological and advisory support, and implementing preventive and therapeutic programs that promote the values ​​of tolerance and cooperation among students. Their effective role is evident in the early detection and follow-up of bullying cases. Their collaboration with teachers and parents is crucial to creating a safe and supportive school environment.