INTRODUCTION:
Bullying and harassment in the workplace are not just minor annoyances, but a pervasive and insidious threat to employee well-being, productivity, and job satisfaction. Bullying and harassment is behavior that makes someone feel intimidated or offended, bullying and harassment at workplace are pervasive issues that profound effect individuals from all walks of life. Harassment and bullying are the unfortunate realities that can have long lasting consequences. The scars of harassment and bullying can last a lifetime, affecting not only individuals but also families, communities and society as a whole. Harassment and bullying are serious concerns that demand attention and action. This article provides an overview of these issues, examining the causes, consequences, and ways to prevent and respond to harassment and bullying. By working together, we can create a culture of respect and empathy.
UNDERSTANDING BULLYING AND HARRASMENT:
Violence isn’t always constantly physical. In fact, violence within side the place of business is regularly characterized by Humiliating feedback and insults, underemployment, constant criticism from superiors and colleagues, etc. Often bullying is considered as the form of harassment but under the Pakistani law, bullying and harassment are related but distinct concept. Bullying at workplace refers to repeated, unreasonable actions directed at an employee or a group of employees that can lead to physical or psychological harm. This can include verbal abuse, spreading rumors, or undermining a person’s work and it typically involves the repeated behavior, On the other hand, harassment is a broader term that includes any unwanted behavior that creates a hostile or intimidating environment. This can involve sexual harassment, discrimination based on race, gender, or other characteristics, and other forms of mistreatment. It can be single incident or repeated behavior harassment often involves a power imbalance.
CAUSES OF BULLYING & HARASSMENT AT WORKPLACE:
Several factors can manifest bullying and harassment in the workplace. When there is lack of Power dynamics in hierarchical organizations it can lead to bullying and harassment especially when supervisors or senior staff misuse their authority or they exploit their power, Ineffective or unsupportive management can contribute to a culture of bullying and harassment. A Warm welcome to toxic work culture means to accept or encourage the aggressive behavior, some individual lacks empathy or insensitivity to others emotions, feelings and needs. Individuals who are insecure about their own abilities may bully others to mask their feelings and inadequacy. Unreasonable workload, demands, or standards. A lack of effective leadership and poor management practices can create environment where such behavior are tolerated it drives the individuals to bully and harass others.
EFFECTS OF BULLYING AND HARRASMENT:
Bullying and harassment can have severe and long-lasting effects on individuals and organizations. The outcomes of bullying and harassment to person’s life that it has been associated with psychological psychosomatic as well as depressive symptoms. It lead them to a serious mental and physical health issues the Victims of workplace bullying and harassment may experience anxiety, depression, and diminished self-esteem. Chronic exposure can lead to severe mental health issues also lead to physical health problems such as headaches, gastrointestinal issues, and sleep disturbances. It including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).The stress of being targeted can result in emotional exhaustion, fear, and a sense of helplessness. Moreover it leads to Loss of confidence, self-doubt, and social isolation in some extreme cases of bullying or harassment it lead victim to suicidal idealization. Physical bullying can lead to criminal charges and civil liability. Bullying and harassment at workplace not just leaves it impacts on victim but it also leaves its stains on organization it Damage to the organization’s image and reputation, Reputation as a toxic work environment a hostile work environment can lead to disengagement and reduced efficiency among employees. Organization that fail to address bullying and harassment may face legal repercussions including lawsuits and penalties this harm the company’s reputation and financial standing.
COPING & PREVENTION STRATEGIES:
To combat this issue of bullying and harassment at workplace it is high time to call to action and create a workplace culture of respect, empathy and inclusivity together we can unmask bullying and harassment and build safer and more supportive environment for all. Coping remedies can vary depending on the situation and individual, it requires a combination of self-care, support, and strategic actions. Use mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing, to manage stress and anxiety. In organizations it is pertinent to establishing a clear anti-bullying and harassment policy is essential. This policy must outline unacceptable behavior reporting procedure and consequences violation. Offer management and staff instruction and training, Encourage an environment where staff members feel free to voice concerns. Establishing sound limits and knowing when to say “no”, Maintaining Documentation of Events and Conversations also Understanding when and how to ask management, HR, or other resources for assistance to help address and resolve these concerns, a number of legal remedies are also available. If the bullying or harassment is severe or ongoing, consider filing a complaint or pursuing legal action.
Here are some law that prevent and prohibits the bullying and harassment at workplace.
- The Protection against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010: Prohibits harassment of women at the workplace and provides a mechanism for complaints and redressed.
- The Pakistan Penal Code, 1860: Sections 509 deal with sexual harassment and punishment for making gestures or remarks that outrage a woman’s modesty.
- The Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997: Section 10 deals with cyber terrorism, which includes online harassment and bullying.
- The Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016: Section 21 deals with cyber stalking and online harassment.
- The Sindh Employees Social Security Act, 2016: Section 22 deals with harassment and bullying at the workplace.
Additionally there are some initiatives that includes the measures to address the bullying and harassment like there is a
- The National Action Plan for Human Rights (2019-2023)
- The Pakistan Human Rights Commission.
- The Education Ministry’s Anti-Bullying Campaign (2019): Aims to raise awareness and prevent bullying in schools.
Life’s challenges can be overwhelming but with the correct adapting cures, we can construct strength, resilience and discover peace.
CONCLUSION:
Bullying and harassment in the workplace are weighty issues that can have noteworthy consequences for employees and organizations. Bullying and harassment can take many forms, including verbal abuse, physical intimidation, and psychological manipulation. The impact on victims can be severe, leading to anxiety, depression, and even physical illness. The magnitudes of bullying and harassment extend beyond individual victims, affecting the entire organization. First and foremost, organizations must establish clear policies and procedures for reporting and addressing incidents Encouraging open communication and empathy is also crucial. Investigating incidents promptly and fairly, taking disciplinary action when necessary, and providing support for victims are also vital steps. By taking proactive steps to prevent and combat bullying and harassment organizations can create & fostering a culture of respect, inclusivity, and accountability, organizations can create a safe, mannerly and productive and respectful work environment where everyone can thrive. Bullying and harassment are never acceptable, and it’s up to all of us that all merits expected considered accompanying dignity and respect where everyone feels valued and respected.
BLOG BY
ADVOCATE AYESHA ZAMIR
