Bullying in an Adolescent and Young Adult Gynecology Population. (February 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Seltzer, Marlene B.; Long, Robert A.
• Is Part Of: Clinical pediatrics. Volume 52:Number 2(2013)
• Page Start: 156
• Page End: 161
• Publication Date: 2013-02
• Subjects: bullying -- pelvic pain -- adolescent gynecology -- psychosomatic symptoms; Pediatrics -- Periodicals; 618.920005
• DOI: 10.1177/0009922812468207
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0009-9228

Abstract

Objective . To determine prevalence of exposure to bullying in an adolescent/young adult gynecology population, whether pelvic pain is an associated somatic complaint, and if health care providers are viewed as a resource. Methods . An anonymous self-reporting survey about exposure to bullying, somatic and mental health symptoms, and disclosure patterns was given to 224 consecutive gynecology patients aged 15 to 24 years in a suburban practice. Results . Prevalence of exposure as a bully, victim, witness, or combination was 80.5%. Missing school for pelvic pain was significantly greater in the bully–victim–witness and victim–witness groups. Taking medication for depression or anxiety was significantly greater in the bully–victim–witness group. No one disclosed bullying exposure to a health care provider. Conclusions . Gynecologists see large numbers of patients exposed to bullying. Patients exposed in combinations of bully, victim, and witness have increased frequency of pelvic pain, depression, and anxiety. Patients do not disclose exposure to bullying to health care providers.