Prof. Dr. Nurper Ülküer, Head of the Child Development Department at Üsküdar University Faculty of Health Sciences, evaluated the relationship between violence against children and peer bullying within the scope of the November 10-14 World Anti-Bullying Week, drawing attention to this year's theme, "The Power of Goodness."
Every Form of Violence Against Children Continues
Prof. Dr. Ülküer referred to the first-year evaluation of the Global Ministerial Meeting on Preventing Violence Against Children held in Bogota, the capital of Colombia, last year, assessing the steps taken by countries in this area as follows:
"A year ago, countries made commitments to completely eliminate violence against children. At the online meeting hosted by the World Health Organization, the extent to which these promises were kept was discussed. Many countries introduced serious legal sanctions, especially regarding 'physical punishment'. Strong steps were taken in preventing and monitoring violence and raising awareness.
Every form of violence against children —neglect, abuse, ill-treatment— continues to be a problem that humanity urgently needs to solve."
Child-on-Child Violence: Peer Bullying
Prof. Dr. Ülküer emphasized that child-on-child violence, meaning peer bullying, is not just a form of physical violence, stating, "Bullying occurs when an individual intentionally and repeatedly harms or disturbs another person. This can happen not only through physical contact but also through actions such as verbal attacks, exclusion, or cyberbullying. It is generally defined by three main elements: intent, repetition, and power imbalance."
One in Seven Children in Turkey Experiences Bullying
Prof. Dr. Ülküer noted that according to UNICEF's 2024 report, bullying behaviors deeply affect the quality of life of children, stating, "The 2024 data from the Turkish Statistical Institute (TÜİK) also reveals the seriousness of the situation. According to TÜİK's 2024 research; one in seven children aged 6-17 experiences peer bullying more than once. Children with special needs are at a higher risk of being exposed to peer bullying. School absenteeism rates increase for children who are bullied, their academic success decreases, and lifelong traumas can emerge."
Drawing attention to this situation, Prof. Dr. Ülküer stated, "Peer bullying is an important part of violence against children. Children who experience violence become more prone to perpetrating violence in the future.
Therefore, the prevention of violence against children is critically important for the prevention of peer bullying."
Strong Parents Play a Key Role in Preventing Bullying
Prof. Dr. Ülküer also referred to the work of organizations such as the UK-based Anti-Bullying Alliance (ABA), emphasizing that empowering parents is among the most effective strategies for preventing bullying.
Prof. Dr. Ülküer stated that "strong parent-child communication" is one of the most important factors in preventing peer bullying, adding that for parents, who are children's first teachers, developing conscious communication skills is vital for early detection and prevention of bullying.
Recommendations for Parents in Combating Peer Bullying
Prof. Dr. Ülküer continued by offering some practical recommendations to parents on this matter:
"Set aside time to talk to your child calmly and without judgment. Ask open-ended questions; help them express themselves with questions like 'Can you tell me what happened?' Notice emotional changes; pay attention to signs such as not wanting to go to school or their belongings going missing.
Remind your child who is being bullied that it's not their fault and that you can solve it together.
Explain the importance of kindness to your child who witnesses bullying; encourage them to inform an adult and support the victim. Talk calmly with your child involved in bullying; help them understand the effects of their behavior and learn appropriate conduct. Cooperate with the school and follow the process together. Be an example of empathy and respect; model kindness and understanding even when you are angry."
Every School Should Have a 'Bullying Prevention Officer'
Prof. Dr. Ülküer emphasized the importance of school systems and education policies in preventing peer bullying, stating, "Teachers' pre-service and in-service training should include combating peer bullying. Every school should have a 'bullying prevention officer'. Bullying incidents should be recorded and promptly reported to relevant institutions. Furthermore, schools should maintain strong communication with parents."
Most Children Who Bully Are Also Victims of the Past
Prof. Dr. Ülküer emphasized the need for psychological support not only for victims but also for children who bully, in order to break the cycle of bullying, stating, "Violence begets violence. Most children who bully have been victims of other forms of violence in the past. Therefore, investigating the reasons behind their behavior and providing the necessary psychosocial support is crucial."
A Peer Bullying Prevention Fund Should Be Established
Prof. Dr. 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.
The national strategic plan and budget should be prepared in line with the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
A Peer Bullying Prevention Fund should be established; resources should be created for the sustainability of awareness-raising activities."
Let's Use the Power of Goodness and Prevent Peer Bullying
Based on all these reasons, Prof. Dr. Ülküer stated that the Children's Movement initiated within the Turkish Grand National Assembly (TBMM) has established a Peer Bullying Prevention Commission within the Turkish Grand National Assembly, concluding her words by saying, "The Commission has started its work with a participatory approach. It will be an important driving force in implementing these proposals. This is an important step that needs to be supported. Let's use the power of goodness and prevent peer bullying."
