How Human Rights Violation amongst Learners May Negatively Impact their sense of Humanity Human rights are the fundamental rights and freedoms to which all individuals are entitled. These rights include the right to life, freedom of thought, and the right to education. In recent years, there has been a growing concern about human rights violations amongst learners in various educational settings.
How Human Rights Violation amongst Learners May Negatively Impact their sense of Humanity
Below we explore the detrimental effects of such violations on the learners’ sense of humanity and the long-term consequences on their well-being and social cohesion:
Human rights violations in education can manifest in various forms, including discrimination, bullying, corporal punishment, lack of access to quality education, and infringement of privacy rights. These acts not only affect the learning environment but can also have lasting effects on the emotional, psychological, and social development of learners.
Erosion of Self-esteem and Confidence
Learners who experience human rights violations are often subjected to humiliation, shame, and a sense of worthlessness. The constant exposure to these negative experiences can lead to the erosion of their self-esteem and confidence. Consequently, these individuals may become less likely to participate in social activities or assert their rights, further alienating them from their peers and hindering their ability to develop a healthy sense of humanity.
Impaired Mental Health
Repeated exposure to human rights violations can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. These psychological effects can impact a learner’s ability to focus on their studies, leading to poor academic performance and a decreased likelihood of achieving their full potential. Moreover, poor mental health can create a barrier in developing empathy and compassion, both essential aspects of a healthy sense of humanity.
Development of Aggressive or Antisocial Behavior
Some learners who experience human rights violations may internalize their negative experiences and develop aggressive or antisocial behavior. This can manifest in various ways, such as acting out in class, engaging in risky behaviors, or becoming perpetrators of violence themselves. In turn, this disrupts the learning environment and perpetuates a cycle of violence, hindering the development of a healthy sense of humanity among all learners.
Limited Opportunities for Growth and Development
When learners’ human rights are not respected, they may become disillusioned and lose interest in pursuing their education. This can result in limited opportunities for personal growth and development, as they may not have the chance to explore their talents, interests, and passions. Consequently, these individuals may struggle to develop a strong sense of humanity and a sense of purpose in life.
Fragmentation of Social Cohesion
Human rights violations amongst learners can create divisions within educational communities, resulting in fragmented social cohesion. Discrimination, bullying, and other forms of mistreatment can foster an environment of mistrust and fear. As learners fail to develop strong social bonds and a sense of belonging, they may struggle to cultivate a sense of humanity that is grounded in empathy, understanding, and respect for others.