Stigma Is the Origin of Bullying

Abstract

Bullying in schools has escalated far beyond childhood teasing. In recent years, torture, murder, and suicide have been associated with bullying (van der Kolk et al., 2007). While bullying is unacceptable behavior in any school, it is particularly problematic in Catholic schools, which must embody Gospel values. Catholic education rests upon essential foundations, three of which include a Christian understanding of what constitutes humanity, finds expression in community formed through communion and essential relationship, and which is itself exemplified and sustained by a Gospel witness (Miller, 2006). This article draws from national news stories about court cases related to bullying in Catholic schools. It explores the notion of bullying as a result of stigmatization and uses the extended example of diabetes as a cause for stigma. It concludes with recommendations for Catholic school leaders to address bullying in schools.