Cause and Effect Essay on Bullying
In the past few decades bullying in schools has gone beyond the traditional hazing rituals we used to see in colleges and universities. Back then hazing was considered as a rite of passage imposed by upperclassmen on freshmen, something that universities would just overlook and believe would end after the first year. Over time anti-bullying policies and cultural shift have reduced this form of hazing especially in higher education institutions. But despite these changes bullying is still present in many aspects of life and takes many forms that affects children and adults alike.
In today’s society bullying is not only present in schools but also in workplaces and even in neighborhoods. It affects both children and adults, sometimes in overt ways like physical or verbal abuse but often in subtle or covert forms. Parents for example are unaware of the bullying that happens in their own homes. This is common in cases of sibling bullying where younger children are bullied by their older siblings. For example older children assign domestic chores to their younger siblings and demand them to do it in their place. If the younger children refuse they may face threats, physical abuse or even deprivation of food or privileges.
The causes of bullying are many and varied, often rooted in family dynamics, social structures and even individual psychological factors. Research shows that sibling bullying is more prevalent in low income families where resources are scarce. In such environment older children assert control over younger siblings to access the limited resources available. This scarcity mentality can create a sense of rivalry and entitlement among siblings as older children impose conditions on their younger brothers and sisters, bully them into compliance in exchange for food or other necessities.
Bullying is also a way for individuals to assert their perceived superiority or seniority in a particular setting. In schools children or adolescents bully others to gain social status or project an image of toughness. In other settings like workplaces employees bully colleagues to protect their position or establish dominance especially if they feel threatened or insecure. The drive for social superiority often reflects deep-seated insecurities or a need for validation that the individual may not get elsewhere.
Besides social hierarchies bullying can also be a symptom of underlying psychological issues of the perpetrator. For example an individual experiencing stress, anger or frustration might lash out at those who are perceived as weaker or subordinate, use bullying as an outlet to release pent up emotions. This is common in both school and workplace bullying where the bully is struggling with personal or professional issues and takes out their frustrations on others. Bullying becomes a coping mechanism albeit an unhealthy one that temporarily relieves their stress but causes long term harm to others.
The effects of bullying are far reaching and deep seated especially when the bullying is prolonged or severe. One of the most immediate and common effects is emotional distress which can manifest as anxiety, depression or feeling of helplessness in the victim. In cases where the bullying is physical the victim might suffer from physical injuries and psychological scars. Victims of bullying develop low self esteem as repeated abuse can erode an individual’s sense of self worth making them feel unworthy of respect or acceptance.
Low self esteem is more concerning because it has many negative effects on an individual’s overall well being. In school aged children for example low self esteem caused by bullying can lead to poor academic performance as the child may lose motivation or feel incapable of success. Socially the individual may become withdrawn, avoid interactions with peers out of fear of further victimization. In extreme cases this emotional isolation can lead to a general distaste for life where the individual feels trapped and hopeless. Some victims may even consider or attempt suicide as a way to escape the relentless pain caused by bullying.
Sometimes bullying can have the opposite effect on the victim, harden them instead of breaking them down. In such cases individuals become desensitized to the pain and develop a tough or callous demeanor as a defense mechanism. This psychological armor can be helpful in the short term but often comes at a cost. Over time these individuals become insensitive or even hostile towards others and perpetuate a cycle of bullying as they carry the behavior into adulthood. Such individuals may become harsh or domineering parents and pass on the same bullying behavior to their own children or partners.
The overall effect of bullying on society is huge, affecting both psychological and health aspects on a big scale. Victims of bullying are more likely to suffer from long term mental health issues like chronic depression and anxiety disorders which can reduce their quality of life and productivity. Bullying related trauma will lead to more demand for mental health services which will put more strain on the healthcare system. If bullying behavior is not addressed it will perpetuate a culture of aggression and hostility in communities where fear and distrust will prevail over empathy and support.
Bullying can only be addressed effectively if it’s a multi faceted approach that involves not just schools and workplaces but also families and communities. Parents, educators and employers all have a role to play in creating a safe and inclusive environment where bullying is not tolerated. By promoting open communication, encouraging empathy and implementing strict anti bullying policies society can reduce the causes of bullying and its prevalence. Counseling and support services should be available to both victims and perpetrators as the latter often need help to address the underlying issues that drive their aggressive behavior.
Tips on Cause and Effect Essay
Writing a good cause and effect essay on bullying requires planning and organization. Start by creating an outline to guide your essay, focus on the biggest effect of bullying and identify the main causes. A clear structure will make it more readable and allow you to cover the topic thoroughly. Do research on the topic to provide accurate and supported information. Keep it focused and concise, highlight the key points and not the extra details.
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