Nursing Assistant Monthly Copyright © 2012 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. November 2012 Bullying in the workplace

Copyright © 2012 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. November 2012 Bullying in the workplace What is bullying?  Bullying is unwanted, hurtful behavior  Bullying can be: –physical or verbal –obvious or subtle  Horizontal bullying occurs when the parties are at the same level of power within a group or organization

Copyright © 2012 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. November 2012 Bullying in the workplace What is a relational aggression?  A form of bullying  A style of interacting –It involves a subtle form of aggression –More common in female relationships than in male relationships –It is a way of exerting subtle power over another person –The aggressor is trying to feel better by putting down the other person –Involves emotional pain for both the aggressor and victim

Copyright © 2012 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. November 2012 Bullying in the workplace Why talk about bullying?  Everyone is involved; everyone suffers –Aggressor –Victim –Bystanders  Resident/patient care suffers!

Copyright © 2012 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. November 2012 Bullying in the workplace How can resident care suffer?  Limits valuable and necessary communication between staff  Distracts staff from focus on their job as caregivers  Reduces professionalism in the facility  Some staff may even decide to leave their jobs

Copyright © 2012 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. November 2012 Bullying in the workplace Bystanders  Witnesses to bullying or relational aggression –Experience stress –Afraid to become involved, might become a target  Witnesses have an important role –Find a way to support the victim –Report persistent problems to supervisor –Get involved in efforts to improve staff communication

Copyright © 2012 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. November 2012 Bullying in the workplace If you are a victim  If you are the victim of bullying –Take some time to think it through –Ask yourself honestly if you are contributing to the situation or conflict in any way –When you are calm, consider meeting with the person –Keep notes of all incidents, meetings –Report any persistent problems to your supervisor –Every situation is different—above all, stay safe

Copyright © 2012 Delmar, Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. November 2012 Bullying in the workplace Strategies to make it better  If bullying happens in your workplace –Everyone can be part of the solution –All staff need to learn better communication –All staff need to learn conflict resolution strategies –Talk to your supervisor—get involved Suggest a project or campaign (not just one inservice) Your reward? A more supportive and positive work environment!