Survey on the Implementation of School Bullying Policy in Indonesia

Abstract

School bullying remains a persistent issue in Indonesian educational institutions despite the existence of formal policies to address it. This study aims to: (1) explore students’ beliefs about bullying as reflected in the implementation of school anti-bullying policies, and (2) examine the extent to which policy implementation affects bullying incidence rates, policy compliance, policy understanding, and policy satisfaction. A survey design was employed, involving 100 tenth-grade students randomly selected from five senior high schools in Bandung City that implement anti-bullying policies. Data were collected using a 16-item questionnaire comprising closed-ended questions (using five-point scales) and open-ended Likert-scale items. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze frequencies and means, while multiple linear regression was conducted to identify predictors of policy satisfaction. The results show that 85% of students have experienced bullying, with verbal bullying being the most common form (35%), occurring primarily in hallways (26%) and canteens (24%). Notably, 52% of students reported feeling uncomfortable reporting bullying to teachers, and 63% stated that their reports received either no response or ineffective action. The regression model significantly predicted policy satisfaction, with perceived reduction in incidence rates, policy compliance, and policy understanding emerging as significant positive predictors. Thematic analysis of open-ended responses identified three primary recommendations: stricter sanctions, increased teacher supervision, and enhanced counselling support. This study contributes to the limited empirical literature on students’ perspectives of anti-bullying policy effectiveness in Indonesia and offers practical insights for policymakers and school administrators seeking to strengthen implementation and stakeholder satisfaction.