Approach to bullying and victimization

OBJECTIVE To review the epidemiology, identification, and management of bullying and victimization among children in the primary care setting.

SOURCES OF INFORMATION Information was obtained from PsycINFO and MEDLINE databases, as well as the authors’ own clinical and research experience. Information is based on levels II and III evidence.

MAIN MESSAGE Involvement in bullying is a destructive relationship problem, with important health implications. Physicians need to be aware of the physical and psychosocial symptoms commonly associated with involvement in bullying so that they can screen and identify those children involved. This article presents a review of bullying and associated symptoms, a tool for assessing bullying involvement, and an overview of intervention and management.

CONCLUSION Bullying is a substantial problem affecting Canadian children. With an increased awareness and understanding of bullying as a health problem, physicians can play an instrumental role in identifying children involved in bullying and providing them with the support needed to develop healthy relationships.