Document Type (Journals)
Original Research
Abstract
Bullying is a widespread issue in higher education, notably in healthcare disciplines like nursing, medicine, and physical therapy. However, there is a paucity of research addressing bullying within occupational therapy, which is a relational healthcare discipline emphasizing meaningful relationships, mutual trust, and respect. This study investigated the experiences of student occupational therapists in Canada regarding bullying during their fieldwork placements through exploratory phenomenology. Data from nine former occupational therapy students were collected via focus groups and interviews. Thematic analysis unveiled common experiences including passive aggression, demeaning comments, and a lack of support. Three key themes emerged: the impact of power dynamics between students and preceptors, reduced learning opportunities and emotional distress, and the necessity for coping strategies. Participants highlighted the detrimental effects of bullying in learning and well-being. We advocate for developing processes to address bullying in placement settings and creating educational resources for students and preceptors to ensure the establishment of safe and conducive learning environments.
Biography
Co-Principal Investigator: Jeff Boniface
Jeff Boniface, MSc, BHSc(OT), BPE, Reg.OT(BC) completed his MSc degree where he defended his thesis using qualitative research methodology.
Principal Investigator: Donna Drynan
Donna Drynan, MEd, BSc(OT), Reg.OT(BC) completed her MEd in 1992. She has participated in numerous research projects related to educational scholarship, primarily in the area of practice education and student performance. She is currently an equity scholar at UBC looking at accommodations in practice-based settings.
Declaration of Interest
The authors report no declarations of interest.
Recommended Citation
Boniface, J. D., & Drynan, D. (2024). The Student Occupational Therapist Experience of Bullying on Fieldwork Placement: An Exploratory Study. Journal of Occupational Therapy Education, 8 (3). Retrieved from https://encompass.eku.edu/jote/vol8/iss3/9
Creative Commons License
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