A Position Statement on Social Justice,Physical Education,and Bullying: A Figurational Sociological Perspective |
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| Authors: | Mark Mierzwinski Steven Cock Philippa Velija |
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| Institution: | 1. School of Sport, York St John University, York, United Kingdomm.mierzwinski@yorksj.ac.uk;3. School of Sport, York St John University, York, United Kingdom;4. School of Sport, Health and Social Science, Solent University, Southampton, United Kingdom |
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| Abstract: | ABSTRACTBullying is increasingly considered to be an important moral, political, and social issue within modern society. Academic research on this issue has mostly been examined through a psychological lens, often using questionnaire data to examine and explain the prevalence of different types of bullying. In this position statement, we apply a figurational sociological perspective to examine issues of school-based bullying in physical education. We critically reflect on attempts to position bullying amongst young people as a “social justice” issue and argue that core figurational principles might potentially help researchers strive toward a more reality-congruent means of conceptualizing the power-relationships that are inherent within bullying. We further maintain that the development of a more detached understanding of issues relating to bullying might provide a more adequate basis to contribute to future ongoing policy development. |
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| Keywords: | Bullying physical education social justice figurational sociology |
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