GP views on their role in bullying disclosure by children and young people in the community: a cross-sectional qualitative study in English primary care

Abstract

Background Bullying among children and young people (CYP) is a major public health concern that can lead to physical and mental health consequences. CYP may disclose bullying, and seek help from a GP. However, there is currently little research on GPs’ views on and perceptions of their role in dealing with disclosures of bullying in primary care. Aim To explore GPs’ views about their role in dealing with CYPs’ disclosures of being bullied, especially factors that have an impact on GPs’ roles. Design and setting In this cross-sectional qualitative study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with GPs in primary care in England from October to December 2017. Method Purposive sampling was used to achieve variation in GP age, professional status in practice, profile of the patients served by the practice, practice size and location, and whether the GPs considered themselves to be actively in research or teaching. Results Data from 14 semi-structured interviews revealed three main themes: remaining clinically vigilant; impact of bullying in schools; and training and guidance on dealing with bullying and cyberbullying. GPs felt that dealing with disclosures of bullying and cyberbullying came down to their clinical experience rather than guideline recommendations, which do not currently exist, and that bullying was a precipitating factor in presentations of CYPs’ mental health issues. Conclusion GPs feel they have a role to play in managing and supporting the health of CYP who disclose being bullied during consultations. However, they feel ill-equipped to deal with these disclosures because of lack of professional development opportunities, and guidance on treating and managing the health consequences of being bullied.