ABSTRACT

In order to stimulate action to deal with bullying at work, it is essential to have a clear idea of the scale of the problem. This chapter reports the most up-to-date findings on the prevalence of bullying in Britain. It will become evident that bullying is a very significant workplace problem affecting a large number of people. This is particularly the case when we widen our perspective to include those who are affected indirectly, such as the bystanders of bullying incidents. Particular industries and occupations that seem to be ‘high-risk areas’ for bullying will be identified in this chapter. We will also examine how factors such as gender, age, and ethnicity might impinge upon the experience of bullying. Do people who are of a certain age, for example, get bullied more, or less? Do managers get bullied more than front-line workers? For how long are people bullied? Do people get bullied on their own, or in groups?