Bullies steal the dignity, self-esteem, confidence, happiness and quality of life of the targeted victims. The understanding of behavioral motivations for each relevant participant contributes to why bullying occurs.
The Bullies
- Have more power than the victims and may be regarded as leaders among the peers, well socially connected, perceived as cool, popular, dominant
- Typically display negative personality traits such anger, narcissism, vengefulness, exposed to resentment and intimidation
- Have callous-unemotional traits, a rare lack of remorse and empathy, having a strong genetic component that could be present on the X chromosome. This could explain a higher inheritance of callous-unemotional traits in males.
The Victims
- Experience both physical and psychological damage in short and long term, having repeated nightmares, anxiety, depression, reduced ability to focus, and low level of self-confidence.
- Generally good performers, but insecure, and vulnerable, with poor social skills after bullying, dropping academic interests and results
The Bystander
- Experience psychological anguish when witnessing bullying events, especially recurring acts of abuse
- Peer relationships can be used against victims
- Might feel pressured not to interfere if by doing so they would risk the harmony of the group they belong.
It is tempting to assume that bullying is a function of perpetrator’s personality. However, inherent factors are not the only ones influencing the behavior. Bullying occurs in the context of an organizational environment and context of a relationship. The exhibition of aggressive conduct and history of bullying behavior is explained by increased activity in the areas of the brain linked with feeling content with seeing others in pain. Genetically related factors (poor parenting) can be concurrent with environment factors (exposure to violence and hostility). However, research shows that bystander’s response can be a powerful influence in reducing the occurrence of bullying, and one good friend can make a vital difference to harassed victims.
As a form of interpersonal aggression, bullying experienced at early age is likely to continue at workplace. Bullies have psychological issues accumulated overtime and carried throughout their lives. A study revealed that 80% of bullies are managers, and often the victims are hard working staff dedicated to their work.
