Workplace bullying of junior doctors: cross-sectional questionnaire survey.
OBJECTIVE
Workplace bullying is a growing concern amongst health professionals. Our aim was to explore the frequency, nature, and extent of workplace bullying in an Auckland Hospital (Auckland, New Zealand).


METHODS
A cross-sectional questionnaire survey of house officers and registrars at a tertiary hospital was conducted.


RESULTS
There was an overall response rate of 33% (123/373). 50% of responders reported experiencing at least one episode of bullying behaviour. The largest source of workplace bullying was consultants and nurses in equal frequency. The most common bullying behaviour was unjustified criticism. Only 18% of respondents had made a formal complaint.


CONCLUSIONS
Workplace bullying is a significant issue with junior doctors. We recommend education about unacceptable behaviours and the development of improved complaint processes.
Scott
Joanne
J
Clinical Education and Training Unit, Level 15, Support Building, Auckland City Hospital, Park Road, Grafton, Auckland, New Zealand.
Blanshard
Chloe
C
Child
Stephen
S
D000328:Adult; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006784:Hospitals, Teaching; D006801:Humans; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D008297:Male; D008505:Medical Staff, Hospital / Q000145:classification / Q000523:psychology*; D009520:New Zealand / Q000453:epidemiology; D015995:Prevalence; D012539:Scapegoating; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology* / Q000523:psychology; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires