School Bullying: Study Conducted in Public Schools in Vale do Sol, RS, Brazil

Abstract

Over the years, school violence has worsened more and more, causing serious problems for those involved and concern for family members and society in general. This study aims to describe the aggressive behavior of children and adolescents from two public schools in the municipality of Vale do Sol, RS, Brazil. 182 students of both sexes, from the 6th to the 9th grade of a state and another municipal school in the same municipality, are participating in this research. For data collection, an individual questionnaire with anamnesis and objective questions related to the aggressions, places where they occur and attitudes taken in the school environment was applied. The statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS 20.0 program. The results show that 34.6% of students from the 6th to the 9th grade have already suffered some type of aggression at school, mostly in verbal form, occurring mainly in the classroom. Most respondents reported that teachers often prevented attacks, but when asked what they do when they witness an attack, they report not reacting to what happened, but they think they should take action. This study allows us to conclude that bullying is still very present in the school environment and is mostly verbal, which can cause serious problems of coexistence between these children and adolescents. Therefore, actions aimed at raising awareness of the consequences of bullying, should be incorporated into the school environment, making it a harmonious and welcoming place.