Bullying can often be misunderstood, misread and missed but if not addressed can cause misery. This article discusses how to identify it and what to do.
Bullying – what is it?
The UK Government website section on ‘Workplace bullying and harassment’ includes the following words: ‘Bullying is behaviour that makes someone feel intimidated or offended…. Examples of bullying include, spreading malicious rumours, unfair treatment, picking on or regularly undermining someone and denying someone training or promotion opportunities… Bullying can happen, face-to-face, by letter, by email and by telephone.’
Bullying and the law
Nobody should be bullied by another person or organisation. Bullying is not just wrong and unfair, but can also cause physical and mental distress. There are therefore laws, as well as ethical guidelines, that prohibit bullying. The General Dental Council (GDC) in its guidance, Standards for the Dental Team, para 6.1.2 states: ‘You must treat colleagues fairly and with respect, in all situations and all forms of interaction and communication. You must not bully, harass, or unfairly discriminate against them.’ Many organisations also have anti-bullying policies. The law, and the GDC, therefore prohibit bullying, harassment and unfair discrimination. So, surely the problem should not occur?
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Dental Nursing and reading some of our resources. To read more, please register today. You’ll enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Up to 2 free articles per month
-
New content available
Already have an account? Sign in here