چکیده (انگلیسی):

Background:Childhood bullying is a major risk factor for health, education and social relationships, with effects
persisting into adulthood. It affects half of all children at some point, with 10–14 % experiencing bullying that lasts
for years. With the advent of cyberbullying, it can happen at all times and places. There have been calls for GPs to
take a more active role in identifying and supporting young people who are being bullied. This paper explores
young people’s and parents’ opinions about whether general practice should be involved in identifying and
supporting young people who are being bullied.
Methods:Two hundred six young people (85.9 % female, mean ± sd age 16.2 ± 3.2 years) and 44 parents were
recruited through established bullying charity websites and their social media channels to complete an online
questionnaire comprising multiple-choice questions and unlimited narrative responses. Questionnaire responses were
analysed by age and gender using descriptive statistics. A descriptive analysis of the narrative responses was
undertaken and key themes identified.
Results:Young people (90.8 %) and parents (88.7 %) thought it was important for GPs to be better able to recognise
and help young people who are being bullied. Most recognised the link between bullying and health. The doctor’s
independence was seen as advantageous. Young people preferred completing a screening questionnaire to disclose
experience of being bullied than being asked directly. They expressed concerns about how questions would be asked
and whether information would be shared with parents/guardians. Parents were supportive of the use of a screening
questionnaire, and most expected their child’sdisclosuretobesharedwiththem.
Conclusion:Young people and parents recruited through anti-bullying websites and social media would welcome
greater GP involvement in identifying and supporting young people who are being bullied and their families, provided
it is offered in a caring, compassionate and confidential manner.