By Toluwanimi Otegbade
The formation of groups or organizations that frequently engage in extreme or harmful behaviors is referred to as cultism, sometimes known as cult activities or secret societies. These groups usually have hierarchies, initiation procedures, and rigid rituals. Hazing, assault, threats, and unlawful acts are a few examples of the behaviors that can be associated with cults.Bullying is defined as when someone purposefully and repeatedly injures, threatens, or degrades another individual. It can take many different forms, including verbal, physical, and internet. Bullying can cause a target to experience severe negative outcomes, such as emotional distress, low self-esteem, and difficulties in school.It’s critical to keep in mind that bullying is not exclusive to cultist activities and can happen in a variety of settings. Bullying can occur in a variety of social contexts, including workplaces, schools, and internet forums. It’s a behavior that can be displayed by both people and organizations, regardless of whether they follow cults. Embracing a strategy of tolerance and inclusivity is necessary to create a safe and welcoming environment for all students on campus. This involves addressing issues like bullying and cultism, which can have a detrimental effect on people’s academic performance and general well-being on campus. These groups can unduly influence their members, which may lead to coercion, violence, and intimidation. On campus, cultism can manifest itself in a variety of ways, including initiation rites and recruitment tactics that prey on the weaker members of the community.Strong policies that prohibit these kinds of activities are necessary for educational institutions to combat cultism on campus. To do this, students are given access to channels for reporting suspicious behavior and frequent awareness campaigns about the dangers of joining cults. Moreover, cults that function on campuses can be located and destroyed with the help of law enforcement agencies. To assist and guide victims of bullying and cultism, establish counseling services, helplines, and support groups. Student ambassadors can be trained in peer mentorship to act as positive role models, mentors, and advocates for inclusivity. Diversity education: Give faculty, staff, and students workshops and materials to help them identify and confront prejudices, fostering understanding and empathy. Clearly defined policies are necessary to prevent bullying and cultism. These policies should be created and implemented, and those who violate them should face just penalties. Students should be empowered to take charge of establishing a secure and welcoming campus community by being encouraged to participate in decision-making processes. Community outreach: To address off-campus bullying and cultism and cultivate a safer community overall, work with local authorities and organizations. Instruction and compassion: Include activities in the curriculum that foster compassion and awareness of the perils of cultism. Handling Bullying in Educational Settings: Bullying is another widespread issue that undermines the respectful and tolerant environment on campuses. Among the many forms it can take are physical violence, verbal abuse, cyberbullying, and social exclusion. Bullying victims often face psychological distress, social isolation, and difficulties in their academic pursuits. If schools are to effectively combat bullying, they must put in place comprehensive anti-bullying policies that outline the consequences for those who engage in bullying. Instructors should receive training on spotting the telltale symptoms of bullying and knowing when to intervene. It is essential to create a safe space where students feel comfortable reporting bullying incidents to prevent further harm. Fostering positive peer relationships among students is an essential strategy in the battle against bullying and cultism. Promoting compassion, empathy, and inclusivity can create a culture where people respect diversity, resolve conflicts peacefully, and feel supported by their peers. Peer mentoring programs, conflict resolution workshops, and diversity training sessions can all help to create a more polite and welcoming campus community. By encouraging a feeling of community and respect among their student body, educational institutions can lessen the chance of cult activities and bullying incidents occurring on campus.