By: Nureedayu Zapuri

Bullying is an aggressive behavior repeatedly carried out with the intent to hurt, humiliate, threaten, or dominate another individual. It does not necessarily involve physical violence it can occur verbally, psychologically, emotionally, or even through cyber means such as social media, messaging applications, or online campus community forums.

Victims are often new students, minorities, or those perceived as “different” from campus social norms. Unfortunately, many victims choose to remain silent, either out of fear of retaliation, lack of confidence in receiving support, or believing that what happened is a normal part of “orientation” or “ragging” culture.

The phenomenon of bullying among students is a serious issue that demands comprehensive attention from all parties. It not only violates the values of discipline and ethics within educational institutions but also leaves deep psychological and social effects on victims. These effects can persist into adulthood or working life if not properly addressed.

I. Psychological Effects on University Students

Victims of bullying among university students tend to experience chronic emotional distress, which can directly affect their mental health and academic performance. The main effects include:

● Depression
Students may feel lost, lose interest in attending lectures, and begin isolating themselves from peers.

● Anxiety Disorders
Fear of socializing, participating in class discussions, or joining residential college activities can make campus life an overwhelming emotional burden.

● Sleep Problems and Nightmares
Stress from bullying can disrupt sleep quality, leading to fatigue, exhaustion, and poor concentration in studies.

● Thoughts of Self-Harm or Suicide
In more severe cases, some students may contemplate ending their lives, feeling there is no way out of their emotional suffering.

II. Impact on Academics and Campus Life

Bullying can cause students to lose motivation to learn and engage in campus life. Some begin skipping classes, fail to complete assignments, and experience a sudden drop in academic performance. Feelings of fear and shame may prevent them from seeking help from lecturers or classmates.

Even more distressing, many students withdraw from college activities, associations, and character development programs experiences that are crucial for shaping personality and building healthy social networks. Low self-esteem and a lack of confidence bury their true potential.

III. Long-Term Social and Emotional Effects

If not properly addressed, trauma from bullying can persist into adulthood and working life. It can significantly influence how individuals interact, make decisions, and build relationships. Long-term effects include:

● Difficulty trusting others and forming healthy social relationships.
● Constantly feeling on guard and fearing betrayal, even from family members or partners.
● Low self-confidence, indecisiveness, and fear of trying new things.
● Developing toxic behavioral patterns either becoming overly passive and easily dominated or bullying others as an emotional defense mechanism.

Conclusion

Bullying among students is not a trivial issue that can be swept under the rug. It is not merely a “senior-junior tradition” or “playful teasing.” In truth, it violates the fundamental rights of students to learn and grow in a safe, respectful, and nurturing environment.

Every student deserves to be treated with dignity, both in life and in the learning process, regardless of background, personality, or how they adapt socially. Therefore, all parties including university management, lecturers, residential colleges, the Student Representative Council (MPP), and peers must play an active role in eradicating bullying culture.

Only through collective effort and strong awareness can we produce a generation of students who are intellectually and morally balanced, upholding humanity and respect in every interaction.

Date of Input: 30/10/2025 | Updated: 30/10/2025 | nureedayu