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Heidi Cowie, RSW - On Horizontal Violence No matter whether it’s called inter-group conflict, interpersonal conflict or bullying, horizontal violence is a significant issue. It happens in any arena where there are unequal power relations and is broadly defined as repeated unreasonable and inappropriate actions and practices that are directed to one or more workers, which are unwanted by the victim. It may be initiated deliberately or unconsciously and inevitably causes humiliation, offence and distress. It interferes with job performance and has damaging long-term effects on recipients.
British research shows that one-third to a half of stress related illness is due to workplace bullying. A report tabled in British parliament, noted that an estimated 40 million working days are lost each year because of bullying at work - more than 160 times the number of days lost through strikes. As well, 25% of targets of bullying will leave that job, as will 20% of witnesses. 35% of those who leave do so very quietly, without any feedback. Studies by Dr Rayner (UK) have found that 51% of victims changed jobs because of bullying.
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