Strategies to manage prejudice-based bullying against LGBT students at a selected university in South Africa
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.38140/ijss-2025.vol5.1.09Keywords:
Prejudice-based bullying, LGBT students, minority students, discrimination, resource allocationAbstract
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) individuals in rural Eastern Cape of South Africa face persistent marginalisation due to remoteness and conservative social attitudes, including within universities. This study explores strategies to manage prejudice-based bullying against LGBT students and reduce the stressors associated with such discrimination.
To achieve the aim of this study, the research was framed within the constructivist paradigm, employing a qualitative research approach and a phenomenological design for a deeper understanding of the phenomenon. The snowball sampling technique was used to select six LGBT students, while purposive sampling was employed to identify two Student Representative Council (SRC) members and two Student Affairs workers. In-depth interviews were conducted to gather data, which were then analysed and interpreted using Braun and Clarke’s 2006 thematic analysis steps. This study revealed several forms of bullying experienced by LGBT students, as well as strategies suitable for managing prejudice-based bullying among them. It emerged that LGBT students encounter technology-facilitated gender-based bullying, verbal bullying, and discrimination, all of which adversely affect their psychological health, resulting in long-term psychological disorders. To ensure the welfare, inclusivity, and safety of LGBT students at the university, participants suggested the need for policy and structural changes, increased awareness and education, support systems, disciplinary measures, and fair resource allocation. This study recommends that the university hold ongoing educational workshops and campaigns, allocate adequate financial resources, network with external stakeholders to gain new insights on managing bullying motivated by prejudice, and promote inclusivity.
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