When you think about schoolyard bullying, what comes to mind? Verbal abuse, public humiliation, physical aggression, or threats?
Traditionally, bullying has been associated with overt acts—visible, aggressive behaviors that are easily recognizable. However, for today’s Gen Z students, it often takes a more subtle and hidden form: covert bullying.
What Is Covert Bullying?
it includes repeated, aggressive actions intended to harm a person emotionally or physically while staying hidden from adults or authority figures. This subtle form of bullying can be just as damaging as overt it, yet it often goes unnoticed or unaddressed by schools.
The Rise of Cyberbullying Among Gen Z
In the age of the internet, it has found new avenues, becoming more prevalent than ever. With mobile devices providing constant connectivity, teens are particularly vulnerable.
A study by the Australian Communications and Media Authority revealed:
• 91% of teens access the internet via computers.
• 78% use mobile phones for internet access, often between 3 PM and midnight.
This digital presence exposes young people to this—subtle attacks, exclusion, or emotional manipulation that can leave lasting scars.
Why Don’t Victims Speak Up?
One alarming finding from the Australian Covert Bullying Prevalence Study highlights why covert bullying remains unchallenged:
“Young people reported losing faith in reporting this behavior because some teachers and other adults are not taking action or not recognizing it as it when they see it or when it is reported.”
When schools fail to acknowledge it, they inadvertently condone the behavior. This discourages students from coming forward, making the problem worse.
Solutions: Giving Students a Voice
To address this issue, the study recommends implementing anonymous peer-led support systems, allowing students to report bullying in a safe and judgment-free environment.
Organizations like ChildFund Alliance work globally to empower disadvantaged children. In their 2016 Small Voices, Big Dreams survey, they uncovered shocking results:
• 31% of surveyed students felt their school was only “sometimes safe.”
This highlights the urgent need for tools that encourage victims of both overt and covert bullying to speak up.
How Whispli Can Help
Platforms like Whispli offer a powerful solution. Already used in schools, colleges, and universities across Australia and New Zealand, Whispli provides:
• An anonymous, user-friendly interface.
• A way for students to report bullying without fear of retaliation.
• Access to support from peers, staff, or independent third parties.
By implementing systems like Whispli, schools can foster a safer environment, encouraging students to report it and seek help confidently.
Covert bullying may be hidden, but its impact is profound. Schools must recognize and address this issue proactively, using innovative solutions like anonymous reporting platforms to empower students. By taking action, we can create safer learning environments for Gen Z and beyond.
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Source : Whispli
