THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE APPLICATION OF EMPATHY VALUES IN PANCASILA EDUCATION AND VERBAL BULLYING BEHAVIOR AMONG ELEMENTARY STUDENTS

Abstract

Education in elementary schools aims to build student character, emphasizing values such as empathy to foster positive social interactions. However, verbal bullying remains a prevalent issue among students, often stemming from a lack of emotional awareness and sensitivity toward others. This study aims to determine the relationship between the application of empathy values in Pancasila Education and verbal bullying behavior among fifth-grade students. This research employed a quantitative correlational design. The sample consisted of 30 fifth-grade students selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using valid and reliable Likert-scale questionnaires for both variables, supported by observational data on teacher integration of empathy during learning activities. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, prerequisite tests, and the Pearson Product Moment correlation test utilizing the SPSS application. The descriptive analysis revealed that the application of empathy values is generally well-implemented and actively reflected in students' daily behaviors. Meanwhile, verbal bullying occurrences are still present within daily interactions but at a relatively low intensity. The hypothesis testing demonstrated a Pearson correlation coefficient (r) of -0.746 with a significance value of 0.000 (p < 0.05). These results indicate a strong, significant negative correlation between the two variables. It can be concluded that a higher application of empathy values among students directly corresponds to a lower tendency to engage in verbal bullying behavior. Therefore, consistently integrating empathy into the learning process serves as an effective preventive measure against bullying.