Bullying in schools remains a significant global issue, with the situation in the Republic of Moldova raising particular concern. The research revealed that 75.8% of pupils have witnessed bullying incidents, while 34.5% have been direct targets, often experiencing harassment multiple times a day. Additionally, 15.8% of children refrained from responding or found none of the provided response options applicable, indicating potential challenges in capturing the full scope of their experiences.

The primary objective of this study was to identify and assess the factors contributing to bullying in Moldovan schools. A quantitative approach was employed, focusing on VII-IX grade children from five sectors in Chisinau. The research utilized a cluster-stratified sampling method to ensure a representative selection of children from various schools, providing a comprehensive understanding of the issue at hand.

The study also examined the role of teachers in addressing bullying. It is encouraging to note that only 1.9% of surveyed teachers were unfamiliar with the term “”bullying.”” However, it is concerning that 46.3% of teachers acknowledged a significant bullying problem in their schools. While 73.1% of teachers reported the existence of anti-bullying policies, these measures were deemed only partially effective. Despite having undergone training on managing bullying, many teachers expressed the need for harsher measures and more decisive actions against kids who perpetrate bullying.

The findings of this study highlight the urgent need for more effective and comprehensive anti-bullying programs in Moldovan schools. These programs should focus not only on prevention but also on enhancing teacher training to ensure that they are better equipped to handle bullying incidents. The results of this research also provide a foundation for future initiatives aimed at creating safer and more supportive educational environments in Moldova.