Bullying and diversity in Greece. The necessity of intercultural education.

Panagiotis Maniatis

Pedagogical Institute

Greek

English

Bullying, nationality, diversity, culture

Report

Policy Makers.

21 - 100 pages

A review of the international bibliography regarding bullying is provided by the author. The focus is on bullying suspected to be generated due to national and cultural diversity. Bullying appears to be included in Greek scientific reports the last decade. It’s not a problem of as great extent as it is in other European countries. Research shows that it’s mainly a problem of primary rather than secondary education. The general results are consistent with the ones appearing in other countries. Diversity appears to be a main cause of the appearance of bullying. “Different” students are the victims in six out of ten incidents as reported by school directors and teachers. Almost one out of three incidents is reported to regard Greeks and foreigners. Resolving the issue is not so easy to deal with. Nevertheless, creating forums where scientists throughout Europe may exchange their opinions and seek solutions might help. The main goal, nevertheless, shall be the change of one’s basic principles. Foreigners shall be seen as equal to Greeks. It is then Greeks will be ready to accept them and appreciate them, not see them as “different”, but as unique.

The author of this article is a full time teacher in primary education and part-time University lecturer. Thus, he is has a dual role in the educational system. He faces bullying in his every day professional life and is qualified to research it scientifically. This alone makes his current contribution valuable. What gives extra value to this specific article is the conclusion of his, which is true for most cases of bullying and certainly applies to the case of bullying among Greeks and foreigners. That is, whether we search to change our laws and central educational planning regarding bullying, or simply face it in praxis, there is a common ground we must walk on. It’s the acceptance of others as equal to us and the recognition of their uniqueness. Greeks will then be intrigued rather to know them better, than make them disappear.

http://www.pi-schools.gr/download/publications/mentor/mentor_12.pdf (page 118)

ASPETE