A Path to Inclusiveness – Peer Support Groups as a Resource for Change

Abstract

Being bullied is associated with anxiety, depression symptoms, and long-term negative health outcomes. The aim of this qualitative pilotstudy was to explore bullied children's experiences of support groups and how participating in a group affected the children. The sample consisted of 24 children aged 11–13 years. Four of them were bullied, while 20 participated in support groups. Individual and focus group interviews were conducted. The main theme identified was that support groups provide an opportunity for change and can help children to be included among peers. The changes were achieved through encouragement and support from peers. The children participating in the support groups reported a feeling of being selected. The groups provided fellowship, and an opportunity for change. Both getting support from and being part of a support group contributed to inclusion, strength, and valuable experiences. The findings suggest that a systemic approach to bullying is advantageous.

Nursing Interventions against Bullying: A Systematic Review

“…This category includes two publications [3,11] detailing nursing care interventions intended to mitigate the aforementioned negative repercussions that bullying can have on the physical, psychological, or socio-economic health of those involved. The focus is on group techniques, the solution-focused approach [11], and cognitive-behavioural therapy, supported by fun activities such as dramatization, games, and role-play [3]. In both pieces of research, support groups aim to improve the social skills, empathy, and resilience of bullying victims [3,11].…”

“…The focus is on group techniques, the solution-focused approach [11], and cognitive-behavioural therapy, supported by fun activities such as dramatization, games, and role-play [3]. In both pieces of research, support groups aim to improve the social skills, empathy, and resilience of bullying victims [3,11]. As mentioned earlier in this article, the solution-focused approach could be useful as a secondary prevention, as well as a basis for providing nursing care.…”

“…and of earning a lower income because of poor employment status, linked to dropping out of school. In both the short and long term, this can have serious repercussions, including suicide [1,4,6,11].…”

“…Heitmann AJ, Valla L, Kvarme LG, (2022), Norway [11] Young people aged 11-13 Researchers (nurses), school nurses and teachers 4 months (January-April 2021)…”