Feelings of inferiority as a catalyst for bullying behavior among Indonesian secondary school students: A literature review

Abstract

Bullying remains a critical issue in Indonesian schools, identified by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology as one of the "3 deadly sins" in the education system alongside sexual violence and intolerance. Recent reports from the Federation of Indonesian Teachers' Unions (FSGI) indicate high rates of bullying across all school levels. However, current interventions largely focus on victim support, leaving the psychological roots of bullying behavior among perpetrators underexplored. This literature-based study investigates the role of feelings of inferiority as a key driver behind bullying behavior in adolescents. Drawing on Adlerian counseling theory, the study suggests that adolescents may resort to bullying as a way to mask feelings of inadequacy, seeking dominance to counter feelings of inferiority. Influencing factors, such as family environment, peer dynamics, and societal norms, contribute to this behavior. Using qualitative, descriptive analysis, findings underscore the need for therapeutic interventions that help perpetrators reframe their self-perceptions and set constructive life goals. Comprehensive support for both victims and perpetrators is necessary to address the root causes of bullying and foster a healthier school climate.

Keywords: Adolescence; bullying; counseling; inferiority.