Repeated, regular, and escalating negative behavior directed at an individual, which leads to an inferior position and systematic exclusion or harassment.

• Public humiliation

• Cyberbullying (offensive emails, social media defamation, doxing)

• Spreading lies or gossip

• Threatening behavior

• Exclusion from work-related activities

• Lack of awareness

• Dysfunctional organizational culture

• Fear of retaliation or loss of job security

• Talking to coworkers

• Seeking support from family and friends

• Asking for a transfer

• Filing a formal complaint

Confrontation involves holding someone accountable face-to-face. It is a structured way to address issues and create a culture of civility and high voice.

• Promote respectful communication

• Address issues proactively

• Support colleagues experiencing bullying

• Advocate for workplace policies against bullying

Bullying is not necessarily tied to legally protected characteristics (e.g., race, gender, disability), while harassment is unwelcome conduct based on those characteristics and is a violation of anti-discrimination laws.

Bullying can have emotional, physical, and intellectual effects, including:

• Anxiety, depression, PTSD

• Insomnia, weight fluctuation, high blood pressure

• Loss of focus, reduced work performance. It can also negatively affect the target’s family and social circle.

• Document incidents of bullying

• Seek support from trusted colleagues, family, or friends

• Speak with HR if safe to do so

• Request a transfer if the situation worsens

• Establish clear policies and regularly communicate them

• Model respectful behavior at all levels

• Empower bystanders to intervene

• Provide safe reporting mechanisms

• Enforce consequences for bullying behavior

• Bullying is a significant workplace issue

• It differs from harassment but is equally harmful

• Organizational culture and employee voice are crucial

• Everyone has a role in creating a positive work environment