Ben, a senior executive in an accounting firm, had always been known for his dedication and competence. However, over the past year, he found himself struggling to complete tasks and meet deadlines. His boss checked on him daily—not to support him, but to scrutinize his work and demand constant justification for his progress. During meetings, his contributions were routinely dismissed, and his peers followed suit, brushing off his ideas and leaving him isolated.
To make matters worse, his boss frequently took credit for his work while publicly downplaying his efforts. When Ben raised his concerns during his performance review, he hoped for constructive feedback. Instead, he was told to “work harder” and “show more initiative”—vague criticisms without clear guidance. His performance was rated as poor or average, with past mistakes repeatedly cited as justification, even when unrelated to his current work. He was often made to feel inadequate and not good enough.
Ben started to question his abilities. He felt drained, anxious, and dreaded going to work each morning. He began to believe that he was the problem.
Does This Sound Familiar?
If so, know that what you are experiencing is not just workplace stress—it is workplace bullying. And you are not alone. Workplace bullying is more common than many realize. In a survey conducted in Singapore, about one-quarter of employees reported experiencing workplace bullying (Choo, 2019). This issue affects professionals across industries and ranks, often leaving individuals feeling powerless and emotionally drained.
What Is Workplace Bullying?
Workplace bullying is repeated, harmful behaviour directed at an individual in a work environment. According to researchers Einarsen et al. (2011), it is characterized by systematic and repeated negative treatment over an extended period, where the target finds it difficult to defend themselves. Such acts can be:
- Person-related: Spreading rumours, excluding someone from social activities, demeaning physical appearance.
- Work-related: Unfair workload distribution, someone else taking credit for work, unreasonable deadlines.
- Intimidation: Threats of demotion or poor performance reviews (Boudrias, Trépanier & Salin, 2021; Wang, as cited in Singapore University of Social Services, 2021).
Other common forms of workplace bullying include:
- Aggression (physical, sexual, psychological)
- Emotional abuse
- Harassment
- Mistreatment
- Mobbing (group bullying)
- Gaslighting
Unlike occasional workplace conflicts or performance-related feedback, workplace bullying is persistent and has severe consequences.
The Impact of Workplace Bullying
Workplace bullying is not just an unpleasant experience—it has significant psychological, social, and physical consequences.
Psycho-Emotional Impact:
- Increased stress and anxiety
- Depression
- Lowered self-esteem
- Sleep disturbances
- Burnout
- Difficulty focusing
- Fear of going to work
- Emotional numbness/loss of joy
Social Impact:
- Workplace isolation
- Strained relationships with colleagues
- Loss of professional opportunities due to unfair evaluations
- Withdrawal from social activities
Physical Impact:
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- High blood pressure
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Loss of appetite
- Increased risk of heart disease due to prolonged stress
Over time, these effects can diminish a person’s confidence and well-being, making it difficult to function effectively at work and in personal life.
Legal Recourse in Singapore
If you are experiencing workplace bullying, it is important to know your rights. While Singapore does not have a specific law against workplace bullying, several legal frameworks provide protection:
1. Protection from Harassment Act (POHA)
POHA covers various forms of harassment, including workplace bullying that involves verbal abuse, intimidation, or cyberbullying. Employees who experience persistent harassment can seek civil remedies or protection orders.
2. Employment Act
The Employment Act provides some protection against unfair workplace practices. Employees who face unjust treatment, such as wrongful termination linked to bullying complaints, may have recourse through the Ministry of Manpower.
3. Workplace Safety and Health Act (WSHA)
The WSHA places a legal duty on employers to ensure a safe working environment. If workplace bullying contributes to a hostile work environment affecting health and safety, companies may be held accountable.
4. Civil Remedies
Employees subjected to defamation, intentional emotional distress, or economic harm due to workplace bullying may explore civil lawsuits against perpetrators.
What You Can Do If You Are Being Bullied
If you are experiencing workplace bullying, here are some steps you can take:
1. Document Everything
Keep a record of incidents, including dates, times, descriptions, and any witnesses. Emails or messages containing inappropriate behaviour can serve as evidence.
2. Address the Issue Directly
If you feel safe doing so, assertively communicate your concerns to the bully or escalate the issue to a supervisor.
3. Seek Support
Speak to a trusted colleague, mentor, or HR representative.
Consider reaching out to external organizations like the Tripartite Alliance for Fair and Progressive Employment Practices (TAFEP) for advice.
4. Explore Legal Options
If informal resolutions fail, seek legal advice on your rights and possible actions under Singapore’s legal framework.
5. Prioritize Your Mental Health
Bullying can take a severe toll on your well-being. Seeking professional mental health support can help you process your emotions, develop coping strategies, and rebuild your confidence. Therapy provides a safe space to navigate the emotional impact of workplace bullying and regain a sense of control.
You Deserve a Respectful Workplace
No one should have to endure workplace bullying. If you recognize yourself in this situation, know that you have the right to stand up for yourself and seek help. Your well-being and dignity matter.
At Private Space Medical, our team of experienced psychiatrists and psychologists understands the deep impact workplace bullying can have on your mental health. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, or burnout, we’re here to provide the professional support you need to regain clarity, confidence, and peace of mind. Reach out to us for a confidential consultation—you are not alone.
At Private Space Medical, our team of experienced psychiatrists and psychologists understands the deep impact workplace bullying can have on your mental health. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, or burnout, we’re here to provide the professional support you need to regain clarity, confidence, and peace of mind. Reach out to us for a confidential consultation—you are not alone.
References
- Boudrias, V., Salin, D., & Courcy, F. (2020). A systematic review of research on the longitudinal consequences of workplace bullying and the mechanisms involved. Aggression and Violent Behavior, 55, 101508. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.avb.2020.101508
- Choo, C. (2019, September 17). Singapore is ‘second-least inclusive workplace,’ as 24% of workers report being bullied or harassed: Survey. TODAY. https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/singapore-second-least-inclusive-workplace-24-workers-report-being-bullied-or-harassed
- Einarsen, S., Hoel, H., Zapf, D., & Cooper, C. L. (2011). The concept of bullying and harassment at work: The European tradition. In S. Einarsen, H. Hoel, D. Zapf, & C. L. Cooper (Eds.), Bullying and harassment in the workplace: Developments in theory, research, and practice (2nd ed., pp. 3–40). Taylor & Francis.
- Singapore University of Social Sciences. (2021, September 29). Breaking down workplace bullying. SUSS Blog. https://www.suss.edu.sg/blog/detail/breaking-down-workplace-bullying
related article
Siti Mariam
Principal Therapist
Principal Therapist
