Teachers' perception of bullying in Maltese church and independent primary schools

Abstract

Bullying is considered to be a serious problem in many schools around the world. There are often short and long-term negative consequences for both the bully and the victim. Certainly, teachers' attitudes play a major role in determining to what extent bullying takes place in schools. This study investigates teachers' perceptions of bullying in Church and Independent Primary schools in Malta. A self-administered questionnaire was completed by 203 teachers of mixed gender, age and teaching experience. This study shows that teachers' perceptions of bullying generally correspond to findings of local and foreign studies. Moreover, this study shows that the majority of teachers are still reluctant to consider bullying to be a serious problem in their schools which is probably a mistaken belief since numerous studies have shown its prevalence in schools in many countries including Malta. Literature shows that bullying is a widespread problem which is very often underestimated. This study shows the need for initial and inset training where teachers are professionally trained so as to be able to identify and respond to bullying effectively. This would also help teachers develop the right attitudes with regard to bullying which would then make it easier for children to disclose their victimisation. Teachers' continued professional development would also help teachers to keep on the alert for new forms of bullying which would otherwise be ignored. This study also reveals that most teachers feel the need for more programmes for children that would help them acquire valuable social skills in order to prevent or be able to act appropriately in bullying situations.