Probability of Experiencing Workplace Bullying

The Workplace Bullying Institute's national survey found that approximately 30% of American workers have directly experienced workplace bullying, and an additional 19% have witnessed it. About 67% of Americans are aware of workplace bullying occurring. Workplace bullying is defined as repeated mistreatment that threatens, humiliates, or intimidates, including verbal abuse, offensive conduct, and work interference.

Unlike sexual harassment or discrimination based on protected characteristics, workplace bullying is not specifically prohibited by federal law in the United States. Only a few states have introduced (but largely not passed) anti-bullying legislation. This legal gap means that many bullying targets have limited recourse.

The impacts of workplace bullying are significant: targets report increased rates of anxiety (about 80%), depression (about 50%), PTSD symptoms (about 30%), and physical health problems including cardiovascular disease and immune system dysfunction. Workplace bullying costs employers an estimated $200 billion per year through absenteeism, turnover (about 25% of targets leave their jobs), decreased productivity, and healthcare costs. About 61% of bullies are bosses. Organizations with strong anti-bullying policies, anonymous reporting systems, and leadership accountability have significantly lower rates.