PEER INFLUENCE AND BULLYING: BREAKING THE CYCLE
On 7th April 2025, a counselling workshop for Class VIII students at Laxman Public School was held on the topic “Peer Influence and Bullying: Breaking the Cycle.” The aim of the workshop was to raise awareness among students about the impact of peer influence and bullying, and to equip them with the tools to resist negative influences while fostering a positive and inclusive school environment. The workshop explored the causes and effects of bullying and peer pressure, as well as strategies to prevent and address these issues in school and social settings.
Objectives of the Workshop:
- To educate students about the different forms of peer influence and bullying, and their impact on individuals.
- To discuss the consequences of bullying, both for the victim and the perpetrator.
- To provide strategies for resisting negative peer pressure and standing up against bullying.
- To encourage students to build a supportive and respectful peer network.
- To promote awareness of the importance of empathy, kindness, and positive social behaviour.
The workshop began with an interactive discussion on peer influence, where students shared personal experiences and identified situations where they might have felt pressured to follow the crowd. The counsellor highlighted the psychological and emotional effects of bullying, explaining how it can affect a person’s self-esteem and overall well-being.
Takeaways from the Workshop:
- Students learned how to recognize and resist harmful peer pressure and bullying.
- They developed a better understanding of the emotional consequences of bullying, not only for the victim but also for the person who bullies.
- The workshop emphasized the importance of kindness, empathy, and standing up for others in creating a safe and supportive environment.
- Students were provided with practical strategies for addressing bullying, such as seeking help from trusted adults and speaking out when they witness bullying.
- The workshop encouraged students to be proactive in creating a positive school culture where everyone feels valued and respected.
Overall, the workshop was a success, with students leaving more aware of the impact of peer influence and bullying and empowered with the tools to break the cycle and promote a culture of respect and inclusion within their school.





