The Role of Friends and Family Members: Supporting Someone You Know Through an Experience of Workplace Bullying

Abstract

Your friend or family member is going through a hard time at work. They are coming home – or meeting you socially – looking down and low. They are not their usual selves. They might seem drained and listless – or angry and sullen – but, however they show it, clearly all is not well with them. They might not feel like talking or taking part in their regular hobbies and pastimes. They might not have much energy or interest to contribute to the things you normally talk about and do together. They might or might not have come to the conclusions that their work difficulties constitute ‘an experience of workplace bullying’ but, whichever way you look at it, they are going through a tough time.