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Mobbing: meaning, definitions and examples

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mobbing

 

[ˈmɒbɪŋ ]

Definition

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'mobbing' comes from the verb 'to mob', which originally referred to a crowd moving aggressively towards someone.
  • In the 1980s, the term started being used in workplaces to describe bullying behaviors among colleagues.

Psychology

  • Studies indicate that mobbing can lead to severe psychological effects, including anxiety, depression, and even PTSD in the targeted individuals.
  • Research shows that witnessing mobbing behaviors can also affect the mental health of bystanders, creating a toxic environment.

Legal Context

  • In some countries, mobbing is recognized as a form of workplace harassment and can lead to legal consequences for the perpetrators.
  • Laws regarding mobbing vary widely; certain regions have specific protections against bullying in the workplace.

Workplace Culture

  • Mobbing often reflects a dysfunctional workplace culture, where competition and hostility overshadow collaboration.
  • Creating a positive work environment is crucial to preventing mobbing and ensuring all employees feel valued and respected.

Pop Culture

  • Mobbing has been depicted in various films and television shows, often highlighting the emotional toll on the victim.
  • Literature often explores the theme of mobbing to comment on societal issues related to power dynamics and human behavior.

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.