A Phenomenological Study on the Experience of the Group-Bullied among Adolescents

Kim, Soon Gu; Lee, Mi Ryon

Abstract

Purpose: This study was to understand the life experiences of adolescents who were the object of group bullying. Method: Data collection and analysis was done by the Colaizzi method. Data were collected by interviewing the participants and by further follow-up observations. Ten adolescents participated in the study. At that time five of them had already overcome the situation, three were still in a difficult situation and the other two participants were in a temporary absence from school. Results: In the analysis 109 significant statements, 31 themes, 12 clusters of themes and 5 categories emerged. The 5 categories are as follows ; feeling inferiority, not being cared for, loneliness, suffering pain and building a relationship and resignation. The 12 clusters of themes are as follows ; dejection, not being sturdy, mal-function of the family, indifference of the society, loneliness, vexation, suffering, grievance, positive intervention of a support system, exertion, harmonizing and abandonment. Conclusions: The results of this study will help professionals to understand these adolescents. Approaching them from the point of view of the whole man, can also be a practical methode for teaching.