Research among 1,001 children aged 11 to 16 by the Anti-Bullying Alliance suggests worrying numbers of children see adults setting a bad example.
Children in that age group highlighted adults who behaved poorly to each other face-to-face, online or in the media.
Some 97% said they would like to see more respect shown between grown-ups.
The survey is published ahead of the annual charity push against bullying, Anti-Bullying Week, which begins on Monday, November 12.
It comes after many reports of a bullying culture in numerous high-profile workplaces in England, including the Palace of Westminster
‘Show respect’
Martha Evans, director of the Anti-Bullying Alliance, said: “Children look to parents and other grown-ups for a blueprint of acceptable behaviour.
“If a considerable number of children say they see adults bullying and being disrespectful to each other, we have to ask whether grown-ups could do more to act as role models to children.