The Student Occupational Therapist Experience of Bullying on Fieldwork Placement: An Exploratory Study

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.