GDC publishes research into sexual misconduct in dentistry
Survey of dental professionals found that 41% had experienced or witnessed sexual misconduct.
A review commissioned by the General Dental Council (GDC) says that sexual misconduct is under-reported and there is a need for systemic change to address unacceptable behaviours in the profession.
The GDC commissioned the review to understand more about how sexual misconduct is experienced by those who work in dentistry or access dental services, their consequences and what can be done about them.
Researchers from the University of Manchester reviewed 23 eligible studies from across the globe. The research examined the risks posed and potential interventions, while identifying the need for more comprehensive UK-specific research.
The review identified the need for immediate action to ensure that victims and witnesses have access to clear reporting pathways, and are reassured those pathways are safe, effective and supportive.
Sexual misconduct, which can include verbal, nonverbal or physical actions that create a hostile or intimidating working environment, has been significantly under-reported in dentistry. Victims are reluctant to report for reasons including unclear reporting mechanisms, fear of retaliation and lack of trust in administrative support.
The review revealed that between 5% and 48% of participants indicated they had been the victim of sexual misconduct, depending on the population and context of the studies. The one UK survey of dental professionals and students reported that 41% and 39% of respondents had experienced or witnessed sexual misconduct respectively.
Stefan Czerniawski, Executive Director of Strategy at the GDC, said: “Everyone should feel safe and respected in dentistry, but reports of sexual misconduct tell us that this is not always the case. Sexual misconduct is unacceptable in any context, but it is particularly important that healthcare settings should be safe spaces for everybody. The findings of this review indicate that sexual misconduct is both widespread and under-reported, with victims often reluctant to come forward.
“That should be a concern for everybody who works in dentistry. People with responsibility for dental workplaces should ensure that patients and staff feel themselves to be in a safe and supportive environment and that they have policies and procedures to support that. It is critical that those who come forward feel supported and protected.
“For our part, we will use the findings to underpin further work to address sexual misconduct in the context of professionalism in dentistry.”
The GDC has already taken steps to address sexual misconduct in the professions. Guidance for fitness to practise decision makers has been revised to reflect the inherent seriousness of sexual misconduct, and the Guidance for the Interim Orders Committee has been updated and references the need to consider power imbalances between alleged victims and alleged perpetrators. The regulator has also consulted on Guidance for Practice Committees that will extend the considerations for panellists in cases of sexual misconduct.