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.

Effects of bullying

"Workplace bullying is linked to a host of physical, psychological, organizational, and social costs." Stress is the most predominant health affect associated with bullying in the workplace leading to increased use of sick days of workers and employee attrition, as employees seek to remove themselves from the environment of bullying. In addition, co-workers who witness workplace bullying can also have negative effects, such as fear, stress, and emotional exhaustion. Like the actual 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".