The Influence Of Verbal Bullying On Students' Motivation In Speaking English

Verbal bullying in schools, particularly in language learning, presents challenges to students' motivation and educational progress. This study investigated the significant influence of verbal bullying on students' motivation to speak English and explored the types of verbal bullying experienced, as well as the strategies employed to overcome its negative effects. The research utilized a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods, including questionnaires and interviews. Questionnaires were distributed to 77 second-grade students at State Senior High School 1 and Fajar Harapan Banda Aceh. Subsequently, interviews were conducted with six representative students. The findings reveal a significant negative correlation between experiences of verbal bullying and students' motivation levels in speaking English. Linear regression analysis indicates that as instances of verbal bullying increase, students' motivation to speak English decreases. Furthermore, the study identifies three main forms of verbal bullying prevalent in schools during English classes: name-calling, mocking physical characteristics, and making hurtful comments on English proficiency. Four main strategies emerge to overcome verbal bullying: ignoring and avoiding, seeking support from trusted individuals, focusing on personal growth, and finding purpose or goals.