On March 1, 2025, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Suchada Thaweesit from the Institute for Population and Social Research, Mahidol University, led the research team in filming content for the MU BullyGuard video clip. This clip is part of an innovative online media program designed to prevent and address bullying in schools. MU BullyGuard is a website-based media tool compatible with mobile phones, tablets, and general computer screens. The initiative stems from a research project focusing on the bullying situation in schools and the development of online programs aimed at strengthening the mental resilience of youth and preventing bullying behavior.
The research was funded by the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT) in 2024 under the framework of a “Violence-Free Thai Society.” The project has two primary outputs: first, an analysis of the bullying situation among teenage students aged 12–17 years, based on survey data from schools across all regions, which revealed a high prevalence of both bullying and being bullied, estimated at 70–80%; and second, the development of the MU BullyGuard online media. This media tool is designed not to depict methods of bullying, but to raise awareness and encourage youth to refrain from bullying others, while also equipping victims with the skills to respond appropriately without perpetuating the cycle of violence often captured by the phrase “If you bully me, I will bully you back, no cheating.”
MU BullyGuard was developed using principles of positive psychology and youth diversity, with a focus on cultivating positive energy, mindfulness, and resilience, key internal strengths that enable bullied youth to recover and thrive.
The program is currently in the production stage and will soon be ready for pilot use. The project is a collaborative effort between the Institute for Population and Social Research, the Department of Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Mahidol University, the Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies at the National University of Singapore, private media producers, and IT specialists from Mahidol University. This cross-disciplinary initiative highlights Mahidol University’s commitment to research-based social impact.
The MU BullyGuard logo is symbolic, reflecting positive energy, courage, strength, and unity in combating bullying among youth. The term “MU BullyGuard” stands for Guardian Against Bullying, representing a collective commitment to eliminating verbal abuse and bullying in all forms.
The owl symbolizes wisdom, kindness, and strength. Its large eyes represent alertness, vigilance, and a readiness to listen, ensuring that everyone feels safe and protected.
“Be Brave, Be Strong, Be Together”
Be Brave – Speak up and protect yourself and others from bullying.
Be Strong – Do not let hurtful words undermine your self-worth.
Be Together – No one should face violence alone.
The logo’s core colors, blue and green, represent the transformative power of positive energy. It serves as a reminder that everyone has the right to a safe environment and can contribute to creating a supportive space for all.
By being Brave, Strong, and Together, we can foster a safe and uplifting society.
For more photos:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?vanity=IPSRMAHIDOLUNIVERSITY&set=a.1113874347203307
