The Ongoing Issue of Bullying  

Written By Kateleen Joy Padlan '25

Despite all the various languages we speak, the universal term of bullying is somehow something we are all familiar with, whether we’ve experienced it or not. It has infiltrated a lot of the pop culture we take in today. Some may see it in the movies, shows, or books they read and watch. But aside from its representation in the media, it goes deeper than what we see in hindsight. The harsh reality of bullying is that it has existed since historical times. Today, bullying has been modernized, taking many forms from verbal, social, physical, and especially racial.  Experiencing this type of beatdown is harmful to anyone’s mental health and can create emotional scars that not everyone can come back from. So we are left with the question, why? Why does anyone even become a bully? And with how long it’s been going, has bullying become a never-ending story?

Now, it is very crucial to remember how we must have a balanced perception towards bullies and their actions. Yes, we can try to understand the underlying issues they hide behind their ways, but we should also propel them to take accountability. Bullies are not born but rather made. So why do people bully? It could be because they’ve experienced it firsthand, or it's their way of hiding the struggles that they are fighting within themselves. The reasons could go on and on; But in the world we live in today, it becomes easy for people to feel lost and alone in their bubble. It’s not the easiest thing to be patient, or even ignore a bully, but avoiding stooping down to their level is a start. Society does not need any more bullies, but rather more people who can understand empathy and contribute kindness. 

These concepts are easy to understand, however, implementing them in our own lives is not exactly straightforward for some. Converting a bully takes patience and time, but this also includes forgiveness. Now nobody is obligated to forgive someone who caused harm, but the option shouldn’t be outlawed. 

In our current times, bullying is becoming a much more serious issue, and efforts are being made by schools and other adults to combat it. There are websites, organizations, and phone numbers to call if anyone ever needs the help or the support. Stop Asian Hate and Black Lives Matter have become influential and groundbreaking movements that were made to stop racial bullying. From older to younger ages, bullying can impact all kinds of minorities. To conclude, it is simply hard to tell if bullying will ever go away. The action is associated with hate and jealousy, which are human emotions that can’t be erased. But regardless, this should not stop us from treating others with kindness. Some may think sayings like “Be Kind” are corny, but in the long road, it’s a powerful trait that can heal a lot of broken hearts. 

Additional information: 

Kateleen Joy Padlan '25

Kateleen is currently a senior, who has been a member of Notre Dame's Journalism program for three years now. Her roles include being the Layout Editor of the Crown and Shield newspaper, as well as Publicity Manager. Writing has always been a passion of hers, especially being able to shed light on topics that should be known. She loves to spend time with her family and friends, who always make her laugh the hardest. She is a huge music lover, with some of her favorites ranging from SZA, all the way to the classics, such as Whitney Houston.

Previous

The Tortured Poets Department
Next

Spring: What will spring break look like for seniors?