Exploring the Prevalence, Gender Dynamics, and Age-Specific Trends of Bullying Behaviors in School Environments: A Case Study from Lalitpur, Nepal

Bullying is a critical issue in schools, deeply affecting students' physical health, emotional stability, and academic performance.This research explores the prevalence, gender differences, and age-specific trends of bullying among students in private schools in Lalitpur, Nepal.Based on data collected from 154 students aged 10-16 through survey questionnaires, the study provides insights into the forms and patterns of bullying.The findings indicate that boys are more frequently subjected to physical, verbal, and cyberbullying, whereas girls experience higher rates of indirect bullying, although less commonly.Younger students (10-12 years) are found to face more physical and verbal bullying, often driven by impulsive behaviour and struggles for social dominance.In contrast, indirect and cyberbullying are more prevalent among older students (16 years and above), linked to greater use of digital platforms and a tendency towards non-confrontational methods of harassment.The study highlights the influence of societal factors, including gender expectations and access to technology, in shaping bullying behaviours.Addressing these issues requires age-appropriate interventions, such as promoting empathy, inclusivity, and digital responsibility, alongside tackling systemic challenges like toxic masculinity and peer pressure.These measures aim to foster a safer and more inclusive school environment, ensuring the overall well-being of students.