How to Deal with Emotional Abuse at the Workplace

Emotional abuse at the workplace is one of the problems that are not often openly discussed. But the fact that society closes its eyes for these wrong-doings doesn't mean the problem doesn't exist. While in many states there is no formal legislation to protect against emotional abuse at the workplace, there is a lot one can do to defend himself or herself against office brats and bullies.

Is Legislation Powerless to Deal with the Office Brats?

If you expect that there is legislation that allows to punish an office brat or bully, this is not so. However, there are many clauses in existing legislation that can give you grounds to defend yourself. The verdict might not be exactly for “emotional abuse” but there are ways to make your coworkers and bosses pay for what they have done to you.

Emotional abuse is often underestimated. It is even considered something normal. No, it isn't. If there are unresolved emotional abuse conflicts, this doesn't solve the problem. If only emotional abuse issues were solved on time, so many mass murders would have been prevented! The price is too high to pretend that there isn't a problem.

Know Your Rights and Fight for Them!

If you are a victim of emotional abuse at the workplace, one of the first things you need to do is to consult a lawyer. Legislation varies statewise and a qualified lawyer should know these variations and what applies to you. Well, it is possible that there is no legal protection for you but this doesn't mean there is nothing to be done.

However, before you sue for emotional abuse (if this is possible, of course), you should try other ways. For instance, sometimes it makes sense to talk to your boss (unless he or she is the offender himself or is protective towards the offender). You can also ask for co-operation from coworkers (but don't rely much on that – many people are just too scared for themselves to help you).

Another alternative is to take part in a class action. Very often office brats are serial abusers and if you work for a large company, it is quite possible that you are not the only victim. You can join forces with other victims.

In any case, keep a log of the offenses. If any action is taken (legally or inside the company), this log will help you prove your point.

Finally, if you see that nothing works, be prepared to leave. Losing a job like this is a relief. You might feel defeated but if you manage to lend a better job, this is much better for you. In any case, try to put abusers in place before you leave for the greener pastures. Leaving them unpunished makes them stronger.

Even a slight kick helps to dethrone them and spoil them the victory that they have got rid of you. Do it! You own them a kick! Read how I fired my boss a couple of years ago.