PEER COUNSELLING AS A PROGRAM TO REDUCE BULLYING BEHAVIOR IN JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

Abstract

This study aims to explore the effectiveness of peer counseling in reducing bullying among junior high school students, with a focus on integrating Western developmental theories and Islamic counseling values to develop a culturally relevant intervention model in Indonesia. The research employs a literature review approach, analyzing existing academic sources from 2016 to 2024 to synthesize findings on peer counseling's role in decreasing bullying behaviors, enhancing empathy, and fostering a positive school climate. Results indicate that well-implemented peer support programs can improve self-esteem, social skills, and empathy among students, leading to a reduction in aggressive behaviors and bullying incidents. The study highlights the importance of combining peer counseling with school policies and teacher involvement to maximize effectiveness. Its implications suggest that culturally grounded peer counseling models can serve as both preventive and curative strategies, benefiting victims and perpetrators alike. The novelty of this research lies in its contextualization of peer counseling within Indonesia’s socio-cultural landscape, integrating Islamic values with Western developmental theories to create a tailored intervention framework. This contributes to both practical applications in school settings and theoretical insights into culturally sensitive counseling practices, addressing existing gaps in bullying intervention.