Navigating Bullying: Exploring Support Systems for Persons with Disabilities in Singapore

Background and Purpose

Persons with disabilities (PWD) in Singapore often face socio-emotional challenges, including bullying and discrimination. Despite these challenges, the experiences of PWDs who seek help after enduring bullying remain understudied. This study aims to investigate the support systems available to PWDs who have been bullied, shedding light on their effectiveness and areas for improvement within Singapore's context.

Methodology

Using a retrospective exploratory approach, we engaged 22 young adults with disabilities who had experienced cyberbullying and traditional bullying during their school years. Participants were recruited from social service agencies, such as the Disabled People's Association, supplemented by snowball sampling.

Results

Our findings reveal that PWD participants often rely on their own coping strategies to navigate bullying, finding them more effective than the support systems available in their school and community settings. Factors influencing the effectiveness of support and interventions within these systems were also identified. Additionally, participants shared their aspirations for improved support at micro, mezzo, and macro levels to address their bullying experiences more effectively.

Conclusions and Implications

This study highlights the significant barriers PWDs encounter in education due to discrimination and bullying, emphasizing the need for comprehensive support systems tailored to their specific needs. By understanding the experiences and perspectives of PWDs who have been bullied, this research provides insights into how systems can better support this vulnerable population, ultimately promoting inclusivity and reducing the negative impacts of bullying on their overall well-being and life outcomes.