“Snitches get stitches”: a qualitative exploration of childhood bullying in first episode psychosis

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background There has been a developing interest in understanding childhood bullying and how it may relate to experiences of psychosis, although to date, there is limited research in this area. The aim of this research was to explore the subjective experiences of childhood bullying for individuals experiencing psychosis. A secondary aim was to explore whether individuals perceive bullying to be relevant to their experiences of psychosis. Method Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight individuals under the care of Early Intervention in Psychosis services. Interviews were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Results Four superordinate and accompanying subordinate themes were developed. The superordinate themes were “facing daily threat”, “overcoming systemic mistrust”, “negotiating power imbalance” and “a process of evolving identity”. These themes identified that bullying was a prevalent and traumatic experience that was not considered enough in services or schools. Discussion Professionals need to enquire about childhood bullying when working with people experiencing psychosis, allowing time to build trusting and empowering therapeutic relationships. Services should also pay more attention to the impact of experiences of bullying when working clinically with service users experiencing psychosis and integrate this into formulations and therapeutic interventions.