The silent epidemic: Prevalence, contributing factors, and intervention strategies for bullying in South African secondary schools
Ntombizodwa Pertunia Dhlewayo ORCID ↗ · Jacob Tseko Mofokeng ORCID ↗ · Tinyiku David Ngoveni ORCID ↗
International Journal of Business Ecosystem & Strategy · 2026 · Vol. 8 / Issue 3 · 313-325
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Observed 21 Oct 2026, 00:14 UTC
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Abstract
This present study aims to expand the general understanding of bullying behaviour and to advance knowledge about bullying among pupils in public schools. Bullying is a global issue that can significantly impact learners’ educational and personal development. This paper analysed the complex and multi-faceted phenomenon of bullying, its prevalence, and its effect on learners in five public schools in Gauteng and Northwest provinces, South Africa. A quantitative approach was applied using questionnaires to a sample of 169 secondary public-school learners. The data were analysed using IBM SPSS Version 23, employing ANOVA tests, Pearson correlations, and Chi-square tests, as well as descriptive statistics. The results show that, like males, a considerable proportion of female learners (varying from 70.7% to 90.2%) reported never engaging in bullying behaviour at school. This study's findings show that bullying happens in schools. For example, a small percentage of females engage in bullying behaviour at varied frequencies: infrequently (5.4-20.7%), twice to three times a month (0-5.4%), weekly (0-2.8%), and daily (1.1-8.7%). Despite the low frequency of bullying, 2.2% of female learners report experiencing physical bullying, such as kicking and hitting on a weekly or daily basis. These results highlight the contextual and cultural specificity of bullying. Authors encourage further research to better understand this nuanced and complex phenomenon, focusing not only on victims but also on bystanders. Addressing bullying requires a comprehensive approach to promoting a healthy learning environment for all learners.
Keywords: {'name': 'bullying, gender, learner, public school, South Africa'}
Authors & affiliations
Ntombizodwa Pertunia Dhlewayo
South African Police Service
Jacob Tseko Mofokeng
University of South Africa
Tinyiku David Ngoveni
University of South Africa
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