BULLYING Some Causes and Effects

The Impact on the Family 

Workplace bullying affects domestic stability and tranquility. It can trigger an inexplicable urge for the target, or victim, to hurt loved ones at home. Furthermore, it can lead  a spouse or family member to fight the bully in a misguided show of support for the victim. On the other hand, a spouse may blame his or her victimized mate for bringing on the trouble. When such cases  of bullying drag on unresolved, even spouses who are otherwise supportive have been known to run out of patience. As years pass, the family may be more likely to disintegrate. 

In some instances bullying results in a loss of career and divorce, or even in suicide. Between one half and two thirds  of Australian victims of workplace bullying reported bad effects on their close relationships, such as those with their partner, spouse or family.

Next time: BULLYING Some Causes and Effects -Bullying Is Costly

From the Awake! magazine, 2003