Daily Times

It is widely understood that bullying is an offense that exists in Pakistan even today. We often hear the word ‘bullying’ and immediately associate it with schools and universities, but its connotation is widespread. It plays against transgenders, transsexuals, boys, girls and even adolescents. That said, there is no reason for bullying either. It is perhaps the easiest way of venting out aggression on someone else. As we study in psychology, people opt for displacement as their defense mechanism, and so do bullies.

Bullying often leaves a lifelong imprint on a child, be it a girl or a boy. The victims are often fearful, isolated, report low self-esteem and are socially awkward. They lack confidence in the long run, though many overcome their depressed state and come out stronger than ever. However, many succumb to pressure and regress, as a result. As Pakistanis, we openly discuss politics but women rights and feminism except issues of pertinence, that occur early on in one’s childhood, are put on the back burner; child sexual abuse, bullying and parental negligence are core societal concerns we should be addressing at the present moment. Our strategies are restricted to seminars and workshops that hardly interest anyone. We need creative campaigns that call attention to such problems through print media or television.

Just like many youngsters in Pakistan, Phoebe Prince was a victim of endless bullying. It led her to commit suicide by hanging herself eight years ago.

Many socially irresponsible citizens claim that bullying is trivial and laugh it off. Perhaps, they have not experienced its extremity. Not every individual is the strongest. Some are sensitive while others are confused. It is beyond my comprehension why people divert their attention from bullying each time it is put on the table. Just like many youngsters in Pakistan, Phoebe Prince was a victim of endless bullying. It led her to commit suicide by hanging herself eight years ago. What has made bullying worse eight years later? Across cultures, a few adolescents have opened up to their peers and targeted those who are inferior to them. Then there is acting. In presence of authorities, bullies often pretend that they are fooling around with the victims and socially label them as their friends. This empowers them to perpetuate violence. Although strict policies are intact for harassment, they are mere words. Those who are in the position of power are inactive and cavalier towards bullying.

I strongly condemn the following statement, ‘People who bully have power over those they bully.’ I have come across many brave victims who have fought back. It is all about power and courage. We give harassers the permission to exercise their power on us.

Some forcibly transform themselves into bullies simply because their fellow peers did not accept them for who they were. Here is what I have to say; one should never compromise on their uniqueness in exchange of recognition and acceptance. This world is colourful for a reason. Not everyone thinks alike. There is always room for more diversity, and self-growth. Therefore, the criminal justice system should place sanctions on bullies, depending on the kind of crime they have committed. Since the consequences of bullying are severe, the sanctions should not fall short of cruelty either.