Workplace Bullying Course

A workplace bullying course has one definition it must get right, because almost every disputed complaint turns on it.

Bullying is repeated unreasonable behaviour directed at a worker or group that creates a risk to health and safety. Three elements, all required.

Repeated. A single incident, however unpleasant, is not bullying. It may be something else that matters more, such as harassment or assault.

Unreasonable. Judged objectively, not by how it was intended or how it felt alone.

Risk to health and safety. Including psychological health.

The element courses usually skip is reasonable management action carried out in a reasonable way, which is not bullying. Performance management, allocating work and giving critical feedback are all legitimate, and leaving that out produces managers who are afraid to manage at all.

The Fair Work Ombudsman covers stop bullying applications. This is general information rather than legal advice.

See Sentrient’s workplace bullying course and respect at work training.