We all know sexual harassment’s not so kind on the ol’ mental health, but a meta-analysis of 110 studies found that workplace bullying is actually more damaging. It seems that people know where to draw the line on sexual harassment because the line’s a whole lot more visible:
Workers know what actions constitute sexual harassment, in part because employers conduct such training in the workplace. As a result, employees know what behavior is illegal and that they have recourse. But nonviolent workplace aggression, for the most part, is not illegal and leaves “victims to fend for themselves,” says Hershcovis.
In addition, they say, employers may also take harassment complaints more seriously and provide support for victims. And while some bullying is overt — yelling, for instance — other forms such as ostracism or withholding resources are hard to confirm.
Does going to work involve a pit in your stomach? From the paper, here are some nonviolent forms of aggression in the workplace:
- Rudeness and discourteous verbal and nonverbal behaviors
- Persistently criticizing employees’ work
- Yelling or angry exchanges
- Repeatedly reminding employees of mistakes
- Spreading gossip or lies
- Ignoring or excluding workers
- Insulting employees’ habits, attitudes or personal life
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