Workforce Language Services

I’m well-aware of how insidious bullying is in schools.  I’ve seen youth terrifed to go to school, youth who snap and attack those who torment them, a prevailing attitude of getting back at those who bully with physical violence, and school administrators who don’t address specific incidents of bullying.  I’ve also seen a growing number of programs designed to educate youth and their parents about bullying and offer alternatives for reacting to such situations.

But I was surprised to read in Diversity Spectrum that workplace bullying is becoming a recognized problem, especially in light of the fact that there are no policies or legislation to protect victims as there are with sexual harassment. 

What is workplace bullying exactly?

The study defined workplace aggression as incivility, including rudeness and discourteous verbal and non-verbal behavior. Bullying behaviors included yelling, repeatedly reminding employees of mistakes, spreading gossip and lies, ignoring or excluding workers and insulting a person’s habits, attitudes or private life

Interpersonal conflict included hostile behavior, verbal aggression and angry exchanges.

Researchers who conducted the study recommend creating a workplace culture in which individuals respond to bullying and make it clear that this behavior isn’t acceptable.  They state that this may be more effective than company policy against bullying.

I don’t necessarily agree that this is enough.  While personnel should take the stance that bullying is unacceptable, without a clear policy in place, there might not be a clear course of disciplinary action to take against the offender.