Workplace bullying

Workplace bullying is "repeated, health-harming mistreatment, verbal abuse, or conduct which is threatening, humiliating, intimidating, or sabotage that interferes with work or some combination of the three". Unlike the more physical form of schoolyard bullying, workplace bullying often takes place within the established rules and policies of the organization and society. Such actions are not necessarily illegal and may not even be against an organization's regulations; however, the damage to targeted employees and workplace morale can be significant.

Prevalence of workplace bullying

A 2007 Zogby International poll among Americans found that 37% of American workers, around 54 million people, had been victims of workplace bullying, while 49% said they had been affected by it.

Effects of workplace bullying

Workplace bullying has been linked physical, psychological, organizational, and social costs. Of these, stress is the most predominant health affect leading to increased use of sick days by workers. Employee attrition is an additional factor, as employees seek to remove themselves from the environment of bullying. In addition, co-workers who witness workplace bullying can also be negatively impacted, experiencing fear, stress, and emotional exhaustion. Like the direct victims of workplace bullying, those who witness such acts often choose to leave the place of employment where the abuse took place. Workplace bullying can also hinder the organizational dynamics such as group cohesion, peer communication, and overall performance.

Psychology of workplace bullies

According to Hare, Robert and Babiak, Paul, "Bullies react aggressively in response to provocation or perceived insults or slights". Moreoever, they tend to exhibit lack of remorse, guilt and empathy, lack self-awareness of their behavior, and appear "unwilling or unable to moderate it, even when it is to their own advantage."

Workplace bullying and the law

Most Western countries have enacted laws against workplace bullying. For example, in Victoria, Australia, there are stipulates that organizations may be found liable if a workplace bully endangers a worker's health by causing stress, or any other physical harm. For another instance, in Ireland there is a "Code of Practice for Employers and Employees on the Prevention and Resolution of Bullying at Work". In the United States, 13 states have enacted legislations specifically targeting workplace bullying.