There are silences that weigh more than words. THE bullyingwhich is observed in schools, means of transport, sports spaces and in the virtual world, does not only affect those who are the direct target of aggression. It also makes a deep impression on those who witness it and sit there, motionless, watching.
So-called passive bystanders experience an internal conflict: they want to help and report, but fear paralyzes them. They fear reprisals and become victims themselves, so they remain silent. At the same time, they believe that someone can do something, so this diffusion of responsibility ends up inhibiting action.
But this silence does not necessarily mean indifference – for many, it is a reflection of deep anguish and an inner struggle between conscience and the instinct of self-protection.
Observing a situation of bullying It’s like carrying an invisible wound. With each insult, with each gesture of violence, the spectator feels injustice and, at the same time, impotence. Many end up taking home the guilt of not having done more and of not having protected those who needed it. It’s a silent pain.
It is urgent to understand that the bullying It is not possible to fight just by supporting the victim or holding the aggressor responsible. It is necessary to give voice and security to those who watch. Create protected reporting channels and promote environments where intervening is not a risk, but rather a recognized act of courage.
But there is more: the fight against bullying requires strategy and prevention. Schools, as privileged spaces for human development, cannot limit themselves to reacting when the problem is already present. It takes a strategic prevention and action planwhich includes:
. Education for empathy and citizenship: programs that teach students to recognize the value of diversity, respect others and develop social and emotional skills.
. Training of teachers and staff: so that they know how to identify signs of bullying and have tools to intervene safely and effectively.
. Anonymous and protected reporting channels: that allow students to report situations without fear of reprisals.
. Clear intervention protocols: with defined steps to support the victim, hold the aggressor accountable and accompany bystanders, who also suffer.
. Family involvement: because the fight against bullying does not end at the school gates; It is necessary to create a support network that includes parents and guardians.
. Promotion of cooperation activities: sport, arts and collective projects that reinforce group spirit and reduce the culture of exclusion.
It is necessary to transform anguish into collective and structured action to break the cycles of bullying and create a culture of care and protection.