The effects of bullying on victims in high schools in Maseru District, Lesotho

Bullying is one of the most common forms of abuse amongst school children. It has both short-and long-term negative effects on such children, and unfortunately does not just negatively affect the victims, but also the bystanders, their families, and the community at large. This study investigated the psychological effects of bullying on victims in high schools in Maseru, Lesotho. A qualitative research approach was adopted in the collection and analysis of data. Focus group discussions and semi structured interviews were used to gather data from 18 participants (students) and five key informants (teachers) who were all purposively selected. Data was analyzed using Thematic Analysis. The study found that students who are victims of bullying suffer a lot psychologically, which negatively affects their physical health, behaviours, emotions, and academic performance. The study also found that bullying leads to low self-esteem such that victims begin to question their self-worth. Therefore, the conclusion made from the findings is that bullying has dire negative psychological effects on the victims, which not only affect their overall health, but school attendance as well. In line with the findings, there is an over aching need for interventions that will help combat the phenomenon of bullying in schools. As a result, this paper recommends for formulation and implementation of policies specifically pertaining to bullying. The study further recommends employment of social workers in schools who will offer counseling to students, as well as dissemination of education and conduction of awareness campaigns on bullying and its undesirable effects.