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Mobbing: meaning, definitions and examples

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mobbing

 

[ ˈmɒbɪŋ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

workplace bullying

Mobbing refers to the systematic bullying or harassment of an individual by a group, particularly in a workplace setting. It can manifest through various forms, including verbal abuse, intimidation, and social isolation. The objective of mobbing is often to undermine the victim's credibility and effectiveness, ultimately leading to their exclusion from the group. This can result in severe psychological and emotional harm to the individual being targeted. Mobbing is recognized in many countries as a serious issue affecting workplace morale and worker's rights.

Synonyms

bullying, harassment, intimidation, oppression

Examples of usage

  • She experienced mobbing from her colleagues at work.
  • The management implemented policies to prevent mobbing.
  • His mental health suffered due to the mobbing he faced.
  • Mobbing can lead to high turnover rates in organizations.

Etymology

The term 'mobbing' has its origins in the early 19th century, derived from the word 'mob,' which signifies a disorderly or unruly group of people. Initially, it was used to describe the behavior of groups in various forms of collective aggression. In the context of workplace relations, it gained significant traction in the 1990s, particularly in Scandinavian countries, where researchers and psychologists began addressing the issue of bullying in professional environments. The concept was famously popularized by the Swedish psychologist Heinz Leymann, who studied the dynamics of workplace mobbing and its effects on individuals. Leymann's work highlighted the need for awareness and preventive measures against such behaviors, thus leading to the incorporation of mobbing into labor laws and workplace policies in various regions. Over time, the understanding of mobbing evolved, influencing discussions around workplace ethics, culture, and mental health.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,004, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.