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Wednesday 28 February 2024

I thought I would share the article below which highlighs bullying in the workplace. Passive and subtle bullying is certianly prevalent which makes the workplace all the more uncomforatble and unpleasant. This can exacerbate mental health upheavel and result in days off work and subsequent underperformance. "Passive bullying in the workplace, also known as covert or indirect bullying, involves subtle and often unnoticed behaviors that can create a hostile or uncomfortable work environment. Unlike overt bullying, passive bullying may be challenging to identify, making it important for both employees and employers to be vigilant. Here are some common forms of passive bullying in the workplace: Exclusion: Deliberately leaving someone out of team activities, meetings, or social events can be a form of passive bullying. This behavior can make the targeted individual feel isolated and ignored. Withholding Information: Keeping important information from a colleague, intentionally excluding them from communication channels, or not sharing necessary details can be a subtle way of undermining their performance and creating a stressful work environment. Backhanded Compliments: Giving compliments with a hidden negative meaning or sarcasm can be a form of passive aggression. It can be confusing for the recipient, as they might not be sure whether the comment was meant to be positive or negative. Microaggressions: Subtle, often unintentional, discriminatory comments or actions based on race, gender, or other characteristics can contribute to a hostile work environment. These microaggressions can be difficult to address, as they are often subtle and easily dismissed. Sabotage: Undermining a colleague's work or deliberately setting them up for failure without direct confrontation can be a form of passive bullying. This might involve spreading misinformation, withholding resources, or not providing necessary support. Ignoring or Interrupting: Consistently ignoring someone's contributions, ideas, or presence in meetings can make them feel undervalued. Interrupting or talking over them can also be a subtle way of asserting dominance or dismissing their input. Gossiping: Spreading rumors, gossip, or misinformation about a coworker can damage their reputation and create a toxic atmosphere. Passive bullies may engage in gossip without directly confronting the person they are targeting. Addressing passive bullying requires open communication, awareness, and a supportive workplace culture. Employees should feel empowered to report such behaviors, and employers need to take proactive measures to prevent and address passive bullying, promoting a respectful and inclusive work environment. Training programs, clear policies, and open communication channels can contribute to fostering a healthier workplace culture." User