Workplace harassment is a phenomenon that is unfortunately more common than you think in work environments. It manifests itself in various ways and can have a significant impact on the mental and physical health of people who suffer from it. Throughout this article, we will explore the three phases that are usually present in the frequent development of workplace bullying.
Phase 1: Incipient Harassment
In the first phase of workplace bullying, also known as incipient bullying, small signs or indications of inappropriate behavior from a superior, a co-worker, or even a subordinate may emerge. These behaviors may include constant criticism, derogatory comments, deliberate exclusion, or gossip. At this early stage, the person being bullied may not immediately identify these behaviors as workplace bullying, as they may seem subtle or isolated.
As the incipient bullying phase progresses , it is important to pay attention to the frequency and intensity of these behaviors, as well as the emotional reaction they generate in the affected person. You may experience feelings of anxiety, stress, or discomfort at work, which can affect your work performance and overall well-being.
Phase 1 Characteristics:
- Subtle Behaviors but recurring.
- Possible denial or minimization by the affected person.
- Initial impact on emotional health.
Phase 2: Harassment Established
As workplace bullying progresses, it enters phase two, known as established bullying. At this stage, inappropriate behaviors become more evident, persistent and harmful to the affected person. Criticism, insults, public humiliation, as well as deliberate social and professional exclusion may intensify.
Workplace bullying in this phase can have a significant impact on the mental and physical health of the person affected. They may experience increased levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and even develop physical health problems related to chronic stress. It is important to note that at this stage, the victim may have difficulty communicating what they are experiencing and seeking help, either due to fear of retaliation or feeling guilty about the situation.
Characteristics of phase 2:
- More obvious and harmful behaviors.
- Significant impact on mental and physical health.
- Difficulty communicating the situation.
Phase 3: Chronic Bullying
The final phase of the frequent development of workplace bullying is chronic bullying, where abusive and hostile behaviors have become ingrained in the work environment and are perpetuated constant. At this stage, the affected person may feel completely trapped in an abusive situation that seems to have no end. They may experience a significant deterioration in their mental, emotional and physical health, with serious consequences in their personal and professional lives.
Chronic bullying can lead the victim to develop disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety generalized, clinical depression and in extreme cases, suicidal ideas. It is essential that at this stage professional support is sought and the situation is reported, since early intervention is key to stopping the cycle of abuse and protecting the integrity of the affected person.
Characteristics of phase 3 :
- Engrained and constant abusive behaviors.
- Significant deterioration in mental, emotional and physical health.
- Risk of developing serious psychological disorders.
In conclusion, workplace bullying is a serious problem that can have devastating consequences for those who suffer from it. Recognizing the different phases of its development can help identify and address this form of abuse in the work environment in time. It is essential to promote healthy and safe work environments, where respect, empathy and open communication are the fundamental pillars to prevent and eradicate workplace harassment.