What is Workplace Mobbing, What are its Examples and Types?
Workplace mobbing refers to a form of psychological harassment and abuse that occurs in the workplace. It involves a group of individuals targeting and mistreating a specific person, often with the intention of forcing them out of the organization. Workplace mobbing can have severe consequences for the victim’s mental and physical health, as well as their professional reputation and career prospects.
There are various examples of workplace mobbing that can occur in different forms and settings. Some common examples include:
1. Verbal abuse: This involves the use of derogatory language, insults, and offensive comments towards the victim. It can be done openly or behind the victim’s back, creating a hostile and toxic work environment.
2. Social isolation: The mobbing group may deliberately exclude the victim from social activities, meetings, and discussions. They may spread rumors and gossip about the victim, making it difficult for them to form relationships and integrate into the workplace.
3. Undermining work performance: The mobbing group may engage in behaviors that undermine the victim’s work performance. This can include withholding important information, sabotaging their work, or giving them unrealistic deadlines and expectations.
4. Intimidation and threats: Workplace mobbing can involve physical intimidation, such as invading the victim’s personal space, making aggressive gestures, or even physical assault. It can also include threats of violence or harm, either directly or indirectly.
5. Cyberbullying: With the rise of technology, workplace mobbing can extend to online platforms. The mobbing group may use social media, email, or other digital platforms to harass and intimidate the victim. This can include spreading false information, posting derogatory comments, or sending threatening messages.
Workplace mobbing can be categorized into different types based on the dynamics and characteristics of the mobbing group. Some common types include:
1. Hierarchical mobbing: This type of mobbing occurs when individuals in positions of power, such as managers or supervisors, target a subordinate employee. They may abuse their authority to mistreat and undermine the victim, making it difficult for them to challenge or report the harassment.
2. Collegial mobbing: In this type of mobbing, colleagues or peers within the same level of hierarchy target a specific individual. It can be driven by jealousy, competition, or personal conflicts within the workplace.
3. Client mobbing: Sometimes, clients or customers can engage in mobbing behavior towards an employee. This can occur in industries where employees have direct contact with clients, such as customer service or sales. The mobbing group may use their position as customers to mistreat and harass the employee.
4. Gang mobbing: Gang mobbing involves a group of individuals who form an alliance to target a specific person. This group can consist of employees from different levels of hierarchy, as well as external individuals who may have grievances or conflicts with the victim.
5. Serial mobbing: Serial mobbing refers to repeated incidents of mobbing that occur to the same individual over time. It can involve different mobbing groups or individuals who continue to target the victim even if they change workplaces or positions.
In conclusion, workplace mobbing is a serious issue that can have detrimental effects on the victim’s well-being and professional life. It is important for organizations to have policies and procedures in place to prevent and address workplace mobbing, and to create a supportive and inclusive work environment for all employees.
