Bullying In The WorkPlace

By: Dr. Russ K. Decker

Bullying in the workplace is as common as eating a sandwich for lunch.  Studies are being conducted all over the world revealing this widespread epidemic.  For the U.S. Hostile Workplace Survey 2000, they polled 1,335 working class people.  One out of every five American workers admitted to being bullied.  The statistics between men and women bullies were 50% in the workplace but women were 3/4 of the targets.  Nearly all the bullies were bosses (81%) with the power and ability to terminate at will (Naimie, 2000).

Bullying is more prevalent than illegal discrimination. Bullying starts at an early age and is usually learned (learned behavior) by a parent, significant role model, or peer.  Bullies abuse either physically, psychologically, or sexually.  They tease and taunt others, purposefully excluding and spreading rumors.  It takes many forms and becomes more intense each time the perpetrator uses power and intimidation to control.  If this behavior is not stopped, the bullying continues into adulthood and in the workplace.

Companies are now researching bullying in the workplace. The polls state 51% of the employees that took a stand lost income as a result of the bullying with many losing their jobs for speaking up.  In Australia, the cost industry estimated an annual amount of $12 billion. What if our society took control of bullying?  What if we, as a society outlawed bullying? 

The French Parliament passed a bill making bullying and harassment punishable by a prison sentence of up to one year and a fine of $13,000 (Vaughn, 2001).  We need the U.S. to pass similar laws, enforcing the prevention of workplace bullying. With early intervention and prevention programs as well as strict laws and strict consequences, this epidemic can change.