Joy's Delusion Case

Joy’s Delusion Case
Problem Analysis
Bullying is a serious and growing issue in today’s workplace. It can be defined as repeated, unreasonable actions of individuals directed towards an employee, which are intended to intimidate, humiliate and create risk to the health and safety of the employee. It is estimated bullying affects close to 40% of American adults. Abused workers who are in a protected class (race, nationality, age, gender among others) can sue under civil rights laws, but bullying in itself is not considered illegal.
Before starting her new job at the university Joy was warned about her future workplace’s shaky reputation by her colleagues and the headhunter, but high salary offer and an exciting challenge swayed her to accept the job. As it turned out from the very beginning the job was not what she hoped for. The job responsibilities were confusing and not clearly delineated, and there was lack of support and resources for Joy’s function. Her biggest nightmare was her boos, Susan. It seemed like she was intimidated by Joy’s work experience and constantly humiliated, disrespected and reprimanded her in front of other employees. Joy was excluded from e-mail communications and sidelined at some events. Joy felt physically and emotionally exhausted. She was depressed, had difficulty sleeping, was losing weight and was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Joy did not confront her boss and felt she had no one to turn to. In the end she was terminated for inability to get along with others and alienation of alumni group members. After leaving the university she found a better job and her rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis turned out to be incorrect.
Susan Cartright, Joy’s supervis...

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...eradicating any potential bullying occurrences.
Workplace bullying is a serious and widespread problem in the US. The negative effects of it are not only moral and ethical in nature, but also economic. The affected employees are frequently suffering from depression and deteriorating health, which in turn translates into organizational productivity loss, high turnover, lost focus and resources due to litigation. The statistics are quite stunning. Workplace bullying is not illegal in any state. Although 23 states have tried to pass anti-bullying laws, none have succeeded. The Government’s role would be vital in shaping the proper awareness and policies for this issue. It should take the leading role in establishing a legislative framework that would assist all organizations throughout the country to fight this unethical, destructive and costly behavior.