The Effectiveness of a Self-Assertiveness-Based Counseling Program in Reducing Bullying Fear Symptoms Among a Sample of Elementary School Students

Abstract

This study aimed to implement a self-assertiveness-based counseling program and measure its impact on reducing bullying fear symptoms among elementary school students in the Second Amman Directorate of Education. The students' ages ranged from 10 to 12 years, and the sample consisted of 60 male and female students selected purposively from 950 students. They were assessed using a Bullying Fear Questionnaire and randomly divided into control and experimental groups. The counseling program was applied to the experimental group, and the study utilized a quasi-experimental design. The results showed statistically significant differences between the mean scores of the control and experimental groups on the bullying fear questionnaire in favor of the experimental group, which is attributed to the counseling program. There were no differences in the program's effect according to gender, nor were there any differences in bullying fear symptoms. There were also no statistically significant differences attributed to the interaction between gender and group regarding bullying fear symptoms. These findings highlight the program's potential for broad application, providing valuable insights for educators and policymakers aiming to enhance student well-being and safety in schools. The research's regional focus and specific intervention approach add originality and practical value to educational psychology and bullying prevention.