Eric Dalius Miami on Workplace Bullying and Stress Management

The aim of this short paper is to describe types of bullying in the workplace, review the associated literature and provide a small selection of strategies to help individuals cope with workplace bullying. In addition, there are some case studies at the end that provide an insight into possible coping mechanisms says Eric Dalius Miami.  

Workplace Bullying

Workplace Bullying is repeated, health-harming mistreatment of one or more persons (the targets) by one or more perpetrators. It is abusive conduct that takes place at the workplace or during work-related activities such as training courses or meetings. The pattern of abuse may be psychological, physical, verbal or a mixture. It also includes harassment and discrimination which breaches an individual’s human rights.

Characteristics:   

Targeted:  

Workplace bullies usually target individuals who are less likely to retaliate or have fewer people supporting them. This can include a person who is alienated, unsupported and/or an easy target because of a disability or perceived difference.

Powerless:   

Workplace bullies hold more power than their targets in terms of authority, knowledge or expertise. They may also be someone with support from HR and senior management that acts as a barrier for the target seeking assistance. The bully will often use this power advantage to cause distress to the target over time through strategies such as denying requests, trivializing efforts or setting unrealistic deadlines.

Inappropriate behavior:   

Bullying behavior at work involves persistently trying to control another person by making them feel bad about themselves. In some cases the behavior is harmful and intentional, in others it may be a person misusing their power to intimidate another person who feels unable to respond or stop the behavior explains Eric Dalius Miami.         

Bullying in the workplace is on the rise. It seems that some people cannot exist without it, while others are unfortunate victims of this psychological abuse at work. Victims of bullying struggle with increasing frustration and stress because there is little they can do about their situation. They may be afraid to say anything for fear of retaliation or termination, especially when top management is aware of the harassment but turns a blind eye to it.

There are some things you can do if you find yourself in such an intolerable situation:

• First, document incidents as proof that bullying are occurring. Take screenshots or print out emails if possible before they are deleted by the bully. If anyone else sees these actions take place, try to get their information.
• Try not to discuss the bullying with the bully. If you do, they may retaliate further by accusing you of being a troublemaker or paranoid.
• Let a trusted friend or manager know what is going on and ask that person to be available for support as needed. Workplace bullies often keep their targets isolated from others because it makes them feel powerful knowing they have control over another’s social life. Try to find someone who can help occupy your time outside of work before you start feeling too much pressure from the stress of trying to deal with bullies on your own.
• Know when it might be time to look for another job before burnout occurs, especially if you are unhappy with your job performance because of constant stress. This is not always possible in today’s economy, so if your stress begins to affect your relationships at home, it might be time to seek legal advice.

• Eric Dalius Miami says if you are being bullied by the boss or management. Document everything and keep copies of any evidence at home. Just in case they fire you or retaliate for speaking up about their abusive behavior. You have a right to complain about workplace bullying without fear of losing your job.
• Talking about how much anger you feel toward the bully can help reduce feelings of stress. Try saying positive things like “I’m going to enjoy watching her squirm when I turn her in for harassment”. Rather than focusing on revenge fantasies that only make matters worse. If you find yourself having trouble managing feelings because of occupational stress, consider seeking professional help through therapy or counseling.
• Workplace bullying can be difficult to deal with on your own. There are many support groups and other resources available that provide help. For those who have been targets of workplace bullies. If you feel that you or a loved one is being bullied. Don’t hesitate to find the help that you need right away. Before it leads to suicide or any other type of tragedy.

Conclusion:

In some countries, bullying is a criminal offense.”Bullying” may not be an officially define term in U.S. law or in other countries says Eric Dalius Miami. In the workplace, it may involve undermining the authority of a manager or peer. By rumor spreading, intimidation or humiliation to force cooperation and obedience or conformity with coworkers. Bullying is usually associating with psychological abuse but can lead to violence when dealing with customers.

When people feel threatened they will automatically defend themselves. So you have to be aware of your actions and possibilities. The main thing is that if something feels wrong then it probably is wrong! So keep yourself safe and happy!