The PPC-17 survey identifies 8 to 17 years old children at risk of suffering from school bullying: An implementation study in a primary care setting

Abstract

Background: School bullying (SB) is a significant public health issue with profound mental and physical health consequences. In France, data are lacking regarding the prevalence and detection of SB among children seen in primary care settings.

Aim: To assess the prevalence of children aged 8-17 at risk of SB consulting general practitioners (GPs), using the PPC-17 screening tool.

Design & setting: A quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study in 13 general practices in France.

Method: Between January and May 2023, children consulting their GP (accompanied by a parent) completed the 17-item self-administered PPC-17 questionnaire. A positive risk screening was defined as at least one "often" response. GPs recorded the initial consultation reason. Data were analysed using univariate and bivariate statistics.

Results: Of 248 respondents, 53% were girls. 34.7% (n=86) were identified at risk of school bullying. Boys scored higher for physical violence (mean 4.3 [SD 4.2]) while girls had higher scores for psychological violence (mean 6.7 [SD 6.1]); older girls (13-17) had the highest psychological violence scores; boys 8-12 the highest physical violence scores. Common reasons for consultation included ENT infections (36%), osteoarticular pain (9.3%), and abdominal symptoms (8.1%), with psychiatric complaints ranking 17^th. Children at higher risk were younger on average (mean 11.7 vs 12.8 years, P<0.003).

Conclusion: Over one-third of children consulting GPs were at risk of SB. The PPC-17 enables effective screening during routine consultations and reveals distinct gender and age patterns. Systematic integration of SB screening in primary care could enhance early identification and support.

Keywords: primary care; risk assessment; school bullying.