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Bullying and the UK Armed Forces
R H Coetzee1, S Atkins, M Gould
1Department of Community Mental Health, Sunny Walk PP6, HM Naval Base Portsmouth. rik.coetzee734@mod.uk
Journal of the Royal Army Medical Corps
|August 7, 2012
Summary
Bullying in the UK Armed Forces is decreasing, with more victims reporting incidents. This study explores contributing factors and the psychological effects of bullying.
Area of Science:
- Military Psychology
- Organizational Behavior
- Criminology
Background:
- Military environments may foster bullying due to specific cultural and environmental factors.
- Victims may face deterrents to reporting bullying incidents within the Armed Forces.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine cultural and environmental factors contributing to bullying in the UK Armed Forces.
- To identify deterrents preventing victims from reporting bullying.
- To analyze the psychological impact of bullying and trends within the military.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative analysis of cultural and environmental factors.
- Review of reporting trends and complaint data.
- Examination of psychological impacts.
Main Results:
- A downward trend in bullying within the UK Armed Forces is observed.
- An increase in reported bullying incidents suggests more victims are coming forward.
- Specific cultural and environmental factors have been identified.
Conclusions:
- Bullying is decreasing in the UK Armed Forces.
- Increased reporting indicates a positive shift in victim confidence.
- Further development is needed in specific areas to combat bullying effectively.
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