I have come to the conclusion that the term ‘bullying’ is so subjective a concept and such a pejorative label that it is not perhaps the most useful term for dealing with and positively resolving workplace disputes where ‘bullying’ is raised as a concern.

Many workplaces that have policies on bullying and harassment will include a definition of bullying. Whilst this can be helpful it can also be restrictive. For example, negative behaviour that is felt to fall short of meeting a ‘bullying’ definition threshold may mean that a complaint is not upheld and the issues are not addressed.

There have been many attempts to employ labels other than ‘bullying’ but I feel we need to agree on and promote a more practical term and definition for explaining such conflict in the workplace. What do you think?