Workplace Bullying from a Reward Theory’s Perspective

Workplace Bullying from a Reward Theory’s Perspective

The reward theory plays a pivotal role in managing bullying within the workplace. Bullying can be considered as a life-changing event because it alters the perspective and attitude of victims towards various elements related to their work. Bullying has a reward for the perpetrator and understanding one’s motivation helps in establishing the source of aggression (Akella, 2020). Psychologists argue that it is necessary for organizational leaders to examine the workplace environment for any possible rewards that might be encouraging bullies.

Studies have shown that in workplaces where bullying is prevalent, there is a high likelihood that bullies have identified gaps within the corporate culture that allow them to intimidate others without fear of suffering any repercussions (Curry, 2016). While some victims of bullying have the advantage of getting psychological assistance, others tend to deal with their trauma alone and end up being depressed. Such experiences lead victims to develop a negative outlook on life, thus lowering their productivity at work. This often happens when one does not speak about his or her experiences and continue working under toxic conditions.