Workplace bullying

Workplace bullying is a persistent pattern of mistreatment from others in the workplace that causes either physical or emotional harm. It includes verbal, nonverbal, psychological, and physical abuse, as well as humiliation. This type of workplace aggression is particularly difficult because, unlike typical school bullies, workplace bullies often operate within the established rules and policies of both their organization and society. In most cases, workplace bullying is reported as being carried out by someone who is in a position of authority over the victim. However, bullies can also be peers or subordinates.^[1] When subordinates participate in bullying, this is referred to as ‘upwards bullying.’ The least visible form of workplace bullying involves upwards bullying where bullying tactics are manipulated and applied against a superior, often for strategically motivated outcomes.^[2][3][4]

Research has also investigated the impact of the larger organizational context on bullying, as well as the group-level dynamics that contribute to the occurrence and persistence of bullying behavior.^[5] Bullying can be covert or overt, sometimes unnoticed by superiors while also being widely known throughout an organization. The negative effects of workplace bullying are not limited to the targeted individuals, and can potentially lead to a decline in employee morale and shifts in organizational culture.^[6] Workplace bullying can also manifest as overbearing supervision, constant criticism and obstructing promotions.^[7]