DR.KHALID YOSUF BHAT
Workplace bullying is a serious issue that affects many employees around the world. It is a form of harassment that can have a detrimental impact on a person’s mental health, productivity, and overall well-being. Unfortunately, workplace bullying is prevalent in many industries and can have long-lasting effects on both the victim and the organization.
Bullying can take many forms, including verbal abuse, physical intimidation, and exclusion from work-related activities. It can also be subtle, such as spreading rumors, withholding information, or undermining an employee’s work. Regardless of the form it takes, workplace bullying is never acceptable and should not be tolerated.
One of the most significant impacts of workplace bullying is on an employee’s mental health. Victims of bullying may experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. These issues can lead to a decrease in productivity, absenteeism, and turnover, all of which can be costly for the organization. Bullying can also create a toxic work environment that can negatively impact the mental health of other employees.
In addition to the impact on mental health, workplace bullying can also have a detrimental effect on an employee’s physical health. Victims of bullying may experience physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and stomach problems. These symptoms can lead to a decrease in productivity and can also result in increased healthcare costs for the organization.
Moreover, workplace bullying can lead to a decrease in job satisfaction and motivation. Employees who are bullied may feel demotivated and may lose interest in their work. This can lead to a decrease in productivity and can also result in increased turnover rates. It is essential for organizations to create a positive work environment that promotes motivation and job satisfaction.
Side effects of bullying also include fear or nervousness while going to workplace and a constant feeling of vulnerability. Even on time off, thinking about work may cause dread among victims. Workplace bullying adversely influences self-management abilities, including adaptability, achievement drive, and initiative, which affects their ability to cope with difficult situations. Bullying leads to losing interest in things employees usually like to do and starts withdrawing from corporate events.
There are bullying cases that can result in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and even suicide in some severe cases. Furthermore, the creativity and engagement of the employees get suppressed. The organization also feels the effects through low employee morale, lost productivity, increased absenteeism, higher attrition rate, and finally, wastage of resources in pursuing grievance redressal. Instances of workplace bullying tarnish the organisation’s image and will discourage potential employees from joining the organization.
Organizations have a responsibility to prevent workplace bullying and to provide a safe and healthy work environment for their employees. This can be accomplished by implementing clear policies and procedures that prohibit bullying and by providing training for managers and employees on how to recognize and address bullying behavior. Organizations should also encourage open communication and provide support for employees who are experiencing bullying.
It is also important for organizations to take appropriate action when bullying occurs. This includes investigating complaints of bullying, taking disciplinary action against the bully, and providing support for the victim. Organizations should also take steps to prevent retaliation against the victim for reporting the bullying.
In addition to the responsibility of organizations, individuals also have a role to play in preventing workplace bullying. Employees should speak up if they witness bullying behavior and should report any incidents of bullying to their supervisor or HR department. It is also important for employees to support their colleagues who may be experiencing bullying.
Bullying must be removed from the workplace as it can have serious consequences, including legal implications for an organisation. The most operative way to wipe out bullying is to stop it before it starts. There are specific steps leaders can take to address bullying proactively. Employers must form a robust and consistent approach to the workplace’s code of conduct or anti-bullying policy, including dealing with unacceptable behaviour
Conclusion
Workplace bullying is a serious issue that can have a significant impact on the mental and physical health of employees. It can also lead to a decrease in job satisfaction and motivation and can be costly for organizations. It is essential for organizations to take steps to prevent workplace bullying, including implementing clear policies and procedures, providing training, and taking appropriate action when bullying occurs. Employees also have a responsibility to speak up and report bullying behavior. By working together, we can create a safe and healthy work environment for all employees.
(Author is PhD in Human Resource Management and works in Dubai)
