The Meaning of Verbal and Nonverbal Bullying Experiences on Teenagers' Self-Confidence

Abstract

This study aims to explore the meaning of bullying experiences and their implications for adolescents’ self-confidence. Adolescence is a crucial developmental stage in which individuals build identity, establish social relationships, and develop self-confidence; however, this process is often disrupted by bullying, both verbal and nonverbal. Using a qualitative descriptive approach, this research involved adolescents who had direct experiences of bullying. Data were collected through open-ended questionnaires distributed via Google Forms and complemented by follow-up interviews through WhatsApp. The research instrument consisted of open-ended questions designed to capture participants’ personal experiences regarding the influence of bullying on their self-confidence. Data analysis employed descriptive qualitative techniques, including data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings showed that 90% of respondents reported experiencing bullying occasionally, while 10% experienced it frequently, with significant psychological impacts. Specifically, 70% of respondents indicated that nonverbal bullying such as exclusion, derogatory gestures, or hostile facial expressions was more painful and detrimental to self-confidence compared to verbal bullying. Verbal bullying, however, also negatively affected victims’ academic performance and emotional regulation. Further analysis revealed that the sources of bullying came from peers, family members, and seniors. Nevertheless, some respondents demonstrated resilience by reframing bullying as motivation, particularly when supported by protective factors such as encouragement from family or peers. In conclusion, bullying, especially in its nonverbal form, significantly undermines adolescents’ self-confidence, but resilience and social support can serve as buffers to help victims cope with its psychological consequences