Interpersonal relationships are the ways people interact with one another. In school they include student-student and student-teacher relationships.
Good student relationships
Students should listen to one another, respect cultural and individual differences, avoid insults and prolonged arguments, reject harmful peer pressure, share responsibly and use dialogue to settle disagreements. Clubs, study groups, sports and school events can strengthen cooperation.
Good student-teacher relationships
Students should be punctual, attend lessons, complete assigned work, ask questions respectfully and communicate difficulties honestly. Teachers should be fair, respectful, prepared and impartial. They should protect learners from exploitation, harassment and discrimination, and work with parents when serious problems arise.
Social ills in the school milieu
- theft and vandalism;
- bullying, aggression and fighting;
- lying, bribery, favouritism, tribalism and nepotism;
- smoking, gambling and alcohol abuse;
- corruption and embezzlement;
- examination fraud; and
- sexual abuse and other forms of immorality.
Fighting social ills
Schools can respond through clear rules, guidance and counselling, responsible discipline, parent involvement, student leadership and disciplinary councils. Learners should report danger through safe channels and reject conduct that harms others.
Summary
Respect, fairness, communication and responsible reporting create healthy school relationships and help prevent social ills.
