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"Viral video depicting bullying at Thabela High School sparks outrage"
Provide a detailed discussion on case study research as a qualitative research method by
applying the school bullying case study above.
1. Introduction
1.1. Definition and Purpose of Case Study Research
Case study research is a qualitative research method focused on the detailed, in-depth exploration of
a single phenomenon within its real-life context. This method allows researchers to analyze a
specific case or a small number of cases, providing deep insights into complex issues (Yin, 2018).
The primary purpose of case study research is not to generalize findings to a larger population but to
explore a particular instance holistically, understanding its nuances and implications within the given
context (Stake, 1995). In criminology, case studies are frequently used to analyze criminal behavior,
patterns, and responses, such as school bullying (Nqumako, 2024).
1.2. Background of School Bullying in South Africa
School bullying is a significant issue in South Africa, affecting students’ psychological, emotional,
and academic well-being. Bullying in South African schools is a widespread phenomenon, often
characterized by physical, verbal, or cyberbullying, and is deeply rooted in the social and cultural
dynamics of schools (Mokwena, 2019). The consequences of bullying are profound, leading to
long-term mental health challenges, academic failure, and in extreme cases, suicidal behavior
(Fleming & Jacobsen, 2017). The viral nature of social media has amplified the visibility of bullying
incidents, leading to swift public outrage and institutional responses, as evidenced in the case of the
bullying incident at Thabela High School.
1.3. Purpose and Objectives of the Study
The purpose of this study is to provide an in-depth analysis of the bullying incident at Thabela High
School in Durban, using a case study approach. This will help illuminate the dynamics of bullying
within a specific educational context and explore the responses from various stakeholders, such as
the school, the Department of Education, and the broader public. The objectives of the study are:
To analyze the specific bullying incident at Thabela High School, examining the roles of the
victim, the perpetrators, and the witnesses.
To explore the institutional responses from the school and the Department of Education.
To examine the role of social media in shaping public opinion and influencing institutional
actions
To provide insights into the broader issue of school bullying in South Africa, informed by the
specific case.
"Viral video depicting bullying at Thabela High School sparks outrage"
Provide a detailed discussion on case study research as a qualitative research method by
applying the school bullying case study above.
1. Introduction
1.1. Definition and Purpose of Case Study Research
Case study research is a qualitative research method focused on the detailed, in-depth exploration of
a single phenomenon within its real-life context. This method allows researchers to analyze a
specific case or a small number of cases, providing deep insights into complex issues (Yin, 2018).
The primary purpose of case study research is not to generalize findings to a larger population but to
explore a particular instance holistically, understanding its nuances and implications within the given
context (Stake, 1995). In criminology, case studies are frequently used to analyze criminal behavior,
patterns, and responses, such as school bullying (Nqumako, 2024).
1.2. Background of School Bullying in South Africa
School bullying is a significant issue in South Africa, affecting students’ psychological, emotional,
and academic well-being. Bullying in South African schools is a widespread phenomenon, often
characterized by physical, verbal, or cyberbullying, and is deeply rooted in the social and cultural
dynamics of schools (Mokwena, 2019). The consequences of bullying are profound, leading to
long-term mental health challenges, academic failure, and in extreme cases, suicidal behavior
(Fleming & Jacobsen, 2017). The viral nature of social media has amplified the visibility of bullying
incidents, leading to swift public outrage and institutional responses, as evidenced in the case of the
bullying incident at Thabela High School.
1.3. Purpose and Objectives of the Study
The purpose of this study is to provide an in-depth analysis of the bullying incident at Thabela High
School in Durban, using a case study approach. This will help illuminate the dynamics of bullying
within a specific educational context and explore the responses from various stakeholders, such as
the school, the Department of Education, and the broader public. The objectives of the study are:
To analyze the specific bullying incident at Thabela High School, examining the roles of the
victim, the perpetrators, and the witnesses.
To explore the institutional responses from the school and the Department of Education.
To examine the role of social media in shaping public opinion and influencing institutional
actions
To provide insights into the broader issue of school bullying in South Africa, informed by the
specific case.
