A Rise in Workplace Bullying
New studies suggest that understanding bosses, a cooperative environment and a social support network are the keys to a healthy workplace free of bullying
Most people think that once they’ve left high school, they have left the world of bullying behind. However, new research shows that bullying among adults in the workplace is higher than it has ever been.
Workplace bullying includes mistreatment of one or more employees through verbal abuse, non-verbal behavior or even interfering with a worker’s ability to get the job done, according to USA Today. The article also states that workplace bullying is on the rise and research shows that it can lead to unhappy employees, a less productive work environment and an overall less successful company.
According to the article in USA Today, research shows that the number of people admitting to workplace bullying is on the rise. Many say workplace bullying has given them anxiety and depression. In 2011, one survey reported that half of people felt they were treated rudely at least once a week, an increase from a survey done in 1998 in which 25% said they felt they were treated rudely.
Is there a cause for the recent rise in bullying? According to USA Today, one explanation could be added stress on bosses due to the economic downturn. Other reasons could be narcissistic bosses or bosses who simply don’t realize they’re being rude because they are so overwhelmed with stress.
Overall, statistics show that most employees are not satisfied at the workplace. A study cited by USA Today reported that only 9% of people say they’re happy at the office.
Those who wish to have a healthy, happier workplace that is free of bullying can focus on making their employees feel appreciated, creatively welcome (those who feel stifled won’t try to innovate as much) and encouraged. Having close friends at work also helps quite a bit, according to the article.
For more information, visit:
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/health/2013/10/08/hostile-workplace-less-productive/2945833/