ISLAMIC COUNSELING STRATEGIES IN HANDLING BULLYING BEHAVIOR IN HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS: A CASE STUDY AT MADRASAH ALIYAH SWASTA PLUS AL-ULUM MEDAN

Abstract

This study aims to analyze Islamic counseling strategies for addressing bullying behavior among students at Madrasah Aliyah Swasta Plus Al-Ulum Medan and to describe changes in students’ behavior following the implementation of counseling. The study employed a qualitative approach with a case study design. The informants consisted of guidance and counseling teachers, homeroom teachers, students who engaged in bullying, and students who were victims of bullying. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation and were subsequently analyzed descriptively. The findings indicate that Islamic counseling strategies were implemented through problem identification, a personal approach, the counseling process, reinforcement of Islamic values, victim support, and continuous monitoring. Prior to counseling, verbal and social bullying was identified in the form of teasing, derogatory nicknames, humiliation, and social exclusion, which caused victims to feel uncomfortable and tend to withdraw from social interactions. Following counseling, positive behavioral changes were observed, including a reduction in teasing and degrading behavior, improved self-control and empathy, greater respect for peers, and increased willingness among victims to interact with others and communicate their concerns to teachers. The reinforcement of moral values, ukhuwah (brotherhood and solidarity), compassion, responsibility, and mutual respect constituted important components of the behavioral change process. The study concludes that Islamic counseling strategies contribute positively to addressing and reducing bullying tendencies while fostering healthier and more constructive social interactions among students.