Reflecting on the Impact of School Experiences on Mental Health and Human Connection
Jon Jon Park, shared his experience of being belittled by a school teacher 60 years ago
A Journey Through Schooling and the Ripple Effects on Mental Health
At 67 years of age, I (Jon Jon) often find myself reflecting on the early experiences that shaped my life, particularly those from my schooling years. One memory that stands out vividly involves a teacher who belittled me in front of the whole class. This incident not only affected my perception of education but also had lasting implications on my mental health and sense of connection with others.
The Incident: A Lesson in Spelling, A Lesson in Humiliation
In my third year of school, during what would have been standard one, a teacher attempted to teach us how to spell the word “apple” phonetically. Despite its simplicity, a few of us, including myself, struggled with the task. The teacher’s method of addressing our mistakes was to call us out in front of the entire class, inviting ridicule from our peers. The laughter and shame I felt were overwhelming. To exacerbate the situation, she asked those of us with older siblings to fetch them. I had to call my sister Janice, who was in standard five.
When Janice came out of her classroom, I was already in tears. She comforted me, instructed me to wipe my eyes, and reminded me of our father’s advice to never cry in front of others. I did as she said, but the experience left a scar. The teacher’s belittlement didn’t end there. She had previously called me “Silky the Fairy” during a parent-teacher night, mocking an innocent comment I made about a character from “The Wizard of Oz.” The public humiliation was unbearable.
The Power of Parental Intervention
My mother, a refined and sensitive woman, was well aware of the situation. Known for her kind manner and loved by all my friends, she took decisive action. She confronted the headmaster, demanding that I be moved to a different class. She firmly told the teacher that belittling children was not an appropriate teaching method and that she had much to learn about education. My mother’s words were powerful: “Jon Jon thought you were the Silky the Fairy, but now thinks you’re a wicked witch.”
Long-Lasting Effects on Mental Health and Relationships
Years later, while staying with a cousin in London, I encountered a classmate from that primary school. He shared a similar experience of being belittled by the same teacher in standard one. This shared trauma highlighted how such negative experiences can shape our mental health and relationships. My classmate went on to become a successful psychologist, showing that despite these challenges, resilience and growth are possible.
The Responsibility of Educators
This reflection brings to light the significant impact educators have on their students. A teacher’s words and actions can either foster a child’s interest in learning or diminish it entirely. My disinterest in school stemmed from such humiliating experiences. It’s a reminder that those in influential roles must understand their responsibility and the profound effects they can have on a child’s future.
A Call for Empathy and Understanding in Education
Looking back nearly 60 years, it’s evident that the scars from our schooling can last a lifetime. It’s crucial for educators to approach their role with empathy and understanding, recognising the weight of their influence on young minds. By fostering a supportive and encouraging environment, teachers can help shape not only the academic success but also the mental health and well-being of their students.
You can watch the full YouTube video below