Factors Underlying Aggressive Behavior Among Grade IX F Students at UPTD SMPN 16 Kota Kupang

Abstract

Aggressive behavior among students is a concern because it can disrupt relationships between students and the learning atmosphere. This study aims to describe the factors underlying aggressive behavior among Grade IX F students at UPTD SMPN 16 Kota Kupang. The study used a descriptive qualitative approach. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews involving ten purposively selected informants: four Guidance and Counseling teachers, one homeroom teacher who also teaches a subject, and five students. Data were analyzed through data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The results show that aggressive behavior appeared mostly in verbal forms, such as mocking, using harsh words, cursing, shouting, and snapping at peers. This behavior was related to peer interaction, the environment and conditions surrounding the students, limited parental attention and guidance, and jokes that escalated into conflict. These findings indicate that aggressive behavior needs to be understood within the students' social context, so guidance and counseling services and school–parent cooperation need to be strengthened.