Summary
This qualitative investigation explores the intersection of psychological and legal responses to bullying and cyberbullying in the United Kingdom through interviews with mental health practitioners and legal professionals. The study identifies substantial gaps between current clinical practice and the need to systematically incorporate bullying history into psychological assessments, and documents that whilst legislation exists, it is both inadequate and underutilised. The authors recommend integrated revisions to clinical psychological practices and legal policies, coupled with education-based interventions, to reduce bullying prevalence and associated psychological comorbidities.
UK applicability
The findings are directly applicable to UK policy and practice, as the study was conducted exclusively with UK professionals. The recommendations for revising clinical assessment procedures and legal frameworks are specifically tailored to the United Kingdom's existing legislation and professional structures.
Key measures
Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with five practitioner psychologists and four lawyers; professional practices, assessment procedures, and legal provisions related to bullying and cyberbullying
Outcomes reported
The study identified gaps in how mental health professionals incorporate bullying and cyberbullying history into psychological risk assessments, and documented existing yet problematic legal frameworks for addressing these behaviours. Thematic analysis revealed needs for improved professional procedures, educational interventions, and legal policy revision.
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