Bullying a “silent killer”

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Workplace bullying is a silent according to a business executive who wrote a book on the topic.

Andrew Faas, the author of The Bully’s Trap was speaking at luncheon presentation about workplace bullying. The event took place on Jan 27, at the St. Clair College Centre for the Arts. Large numbers of people attended the event.

Faas said workplace bullying is on the rise, which not only reduces productivity but sometimes leads to suicide.

“Sometimes people who are targeted are unaware what they are going through is bullying,” said Faas. “In The Bully’s Trap I have provided comprehensive insight into the dynamics, impacts and costs of bullying in the workplace and answers to how it can be prevented and stopped.”

According to Faas, bullying destroys everything from careers to lives. “There are many organizations who not only ignore bullying but even encourage it,” he said. “Most people who are targeted or witness bullying do not report it for fear of losing their jobs.

Ankur Joshi, 40, was attending the presentation. He said he worked as a cashier at a local retail store for several years. He said he experienced work-related bullying until he decided to quit his job.

“I was accused of various forms of gross misbehaviour and numerous other offences by my boss,” said Joshi. “My boss always tried to humiliate me in front of everyone.”

He said eventually he made a harassment case but the human resources department and management did not responded seriously to the allegations.

“I experienced anxiety, depression even post-traumatic stress disorder that lead to psychological harm and actual physical illness,” said Joshi.

Fass said if workers are getting bullied they must speak up quickly and do not let it fester into a life or death decision.

Dr. Lee Catherine, a local psychologist, said bullying is abuse creating an unhealthy and psychological power imbalance between the bully and their target which can result in psychological damage for both parties.

“Bullying causes targets to feel anxious, depressed, fearful, develop headaches and stomachaches, creates self-doubt and anger,” said Lee. “It is not a one-time event, it’s ongoing abuse that occurs several times a day or week, becomes more and more aggressive over time.”

According to Lee there should be a healthy workplace policy ensuring the workplace is free of negativity and unprofessional behaviours. It should aim at providing an atmosphere of respect, collaboration and safety.

Faas advised workers who may be the victim of an office bully to document all incidents and then take that information to management or human resources.