Bullying: An Interdisciplinary Study from Islamic and Psychological Perspectives

Abstract

Bullying is both an ancient and modern phenomenon: ancient in its occurrence across civilizations, yet modern in terms of its scientific study and the exploration of its causes. It has spread across nearly all social environments, including families, schools, workplaces, and online platforms. Bullying poses serious risks to individuals and societies. For individuals, it undermines psychological well‑being and social adjustment, sometimes leading to extreme outcomes such as suicidal behavior. For societies, it weakens social cohesion and contributes to family and community instability. Drawing on both Islamic teachings and psychological research, this study explores the causes of bullying and proposes treatment strategies. From the Islamic perspective, bullying is prohibited as a form of harm and injustice, with remedies rooted in moral education, family guidance, and community responsibility (Jaafer, 2023; SeekersPath, 2024). From the psychological perspective, bullying is explained through individual traits, family dynamics, and social reinforcement, with interventions focusing on school programs, counseling, and policy measures (Olweus, 1994; Smith, 2004; Volk, Veenstra, & Espelage, 2014). This interdisciplinary approach highlights the need for integrated solutions that combine moral, spiritual, and scientific insights to address one of the most pressing challenges to mental health and social stability worldwide.