Roadblocks to combatting LGBT-based school bullying in SouthAfrican schools: a phenomenological study

Abstract

Despite the intervention framework, educational policies, and effortsaimed at providing a supportive environment and improving the socialclimate for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT) learners in SouthAfrican schools, LGBT-based school bullying continues to persist.Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the roadblocks tocombating LGBT based school bullying in South Africa. Ten participantswere purposively selected to participate in this study. Data was collectedusing semi-structured individual interviews, which were also audio-recorded.. The data was analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Thefindings of this study showed that teachers’ inadequate support, reluc-tance to accept LGBT status, religious beliefs, inadequate LGBT bullyingcase reports, and use of the same facilities as heterosexual learners werethe main factors that limit schools to combat LGBT-based school bullying.It is recommended that schools create a forum for learners to reporthomophobic bullying, which in turn creates more opportunities for inter-vention and allows swift action when cases of bullying are reported.A school-based support team needs to ensure that schools have symbols,stickers, flags, and posters depicting acceptance and respect for LGBTlearners so that all LGBT learners can feel safe and enjoy being at school.