Children who wear glasses are no longer the target for bullies, according to new research findings published by the College of Optometrists as part of its ongoing campaign to raise consumer awareness of eye health issues.
In contrast, nearly two thirds of adults (64 per cent) participating in the College survey admitted that children were teased or bullied for wearing glasses when they were at school. In contrast, only 5 per cent of children now under 16 said that they are 'bullied' for the same reason, and only 7 per cent are 'teased' or told they look 'geeky'.
College research findings indicated that children in the 80s had the worst time at school for wearing spectacles with 71 per cent of those now aged between 35 and 44 claiming to have witnessed teasing or bullying
Survey findings revealed that recent school leavers appeared to have had an easier run, with only 46 per cent of 18-24 year olds aware of any bullying.
Adults assume the worst for today's kids, with over a quarter of respondents (27 per cent) believing that children will be bullied for wearing glasses in the playground, according to the research findings.
In contrast, children say that glasses are either ignored or a source of envy among school mates. Over a third of kids (34 per cent) under 16 say their friends never mention their glasses at all, while 43 per cent say their friends are actively positive about them: saying that they make them look 'clever' (17 per cent), 'trendy' (11 per cent), 'attractive' (10 per cent) and 'kind' (5 per cent).
Commenting on the findings, Dr Susan Blakeney, Optometric Adviser to the College of Optometrists said: 'This is great news for parents, who will find it easier to take their children to an optometrist if they suspect they may be having problems with their eyes, and for children who will receive the help they may need to ensure they see as clearly and comfortably as possible.'