What is Mobbing (Workplace Bullying)?
Turkish: Mobbing
Mobbing refers to systematic, continuous and deliberate psychological pressure, intimidation or exclusion directed at employees in working life. In short, it covers all negative behavior that disturbs a person's peace in the workplace, isolates them and lowers their productivity. These behaviors are often implicit and ongoing, which sets them apart from a one-off argument or disagreement.
Example Behaviors
- Constantly ignoring an employee's ideas
- Not inviting them to meetings or not informing them
- Spreading unfounded rumors about them
- Constantly and unfairly criticizing their work
- Deliberately excluding them from social relationships
Consequences
Mobbing affects not only the individual but the whole organization. The employee may experience loss of self-confidence, stress, anxiety and disengagement from work. The organization faces rising turnover, falling motivation and weakening commitment. In the long run, it seriously harms the company's reputation and productivity.
Mobbing and the Law
In Türkiye, the Labor Law and the Code of Obligations provide for the protection of employees' personality rights. An employee who is a victim of mobbing can seek their rights through legal channels and claim non-pecuniary damages. Employers also have a duty to protect employees and provide a safe working environment.
How to Prevent It
- Build a culture of open communication within the company
- Managers and employees should receive regular awareness training
- Ethics rules and complaint mechanisms should be clearly defined
- Transparent performance evaluation processes should be applied
Conclusion
Mobbing is a corporate issue, not an individual one. Ensuring that employees work in a peaceful, fair and safe environment is the responsibility of both the employer and every teammate. A healthy work culture is the strongest shield against mobbing.