Introduction:
Anita had always been considered a little overweight since childhood. From a young age, she faced bullying and ridicule, with peers often making comments like “Oh, are you really going to eat that?” and “You have such a pretty face; you should lose some weight.” These remarks, often followed by giggles, left long-lasting emotional scars.
Such issues aren’t confined to childhood or school settings; they frequently spill over into professional environments, creating toxic workplaces that harm employees’ mental and physical well-being. In Corporate India, there is a concerning rise in incidents of body shaming and bullying, which sometimes intersect with sexual harassment, such as gossip about sexual orientation, probing questions about marital status, or intrusive inquiries regarding personal matters like menstruation or gynecologic leave.
In recent years, the focus has shifted towards diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. However, true inclusion involves respecting and appreciating physical diversity. Comments about someone’s physique or personal life, though often considered “normal” or “funny,” can have a significant negative impact and should be avoided.
Understanding Workplace Bullying and Body Shaming
Workplace Bullying involves repeated, harmful actions or words directed toward an employee or group of employees. Examples include:
– Verbal Abuse: Insults, belittling comments, or threats.
– Exclusion: Deliberately isolating someone from work-related activities or social interactions.
– Manipulation: Undermining an individual’s work performance or sabotaging their efforts.
– Intimidation: Using fear to control or dominate others.
Body Shaming at the workplace refers to making derogatory comments or judgments about an individual’s physical appearance. This can be overt, such as mocking someone’s weight or attire, or subtle, like giving backhanded compliments or making assumptions about someone’s capabilities based on their looks.
In addition to these, there are other forms of harassment and discrimination that occur in the workplace, including intimidation, power plays, and discrimination based on origin, skin color, and accent. These behaviors can create an environment that is not only uncomfortable but also hostile, affecting both individual and collective morale.
The Impact of Bullying and Body Shaming
The effects of workplace bullying and body shaming are significant and multifaceted:
– Mental Health Issues: Victims may experience anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and increased stress levels.
– Physical Health Problems: Stress from bullying and body shaming can lead to headaches, fatigue, and sleep disturbances.
– Decreased Job Performance: Employees subjected to these behaviors often show decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and higher turnover rates.
– Toxic Workplace Culture: Environments where bullying and body shaming are prevalent can lead to low morale and a lack of trust among employees.
Global and Indian Context
Statistics and Reports
A global survey revealed that over 60% of victims of violence and harassment at work reported their experiences. Psychological violence and harassment were the most common forms, reported by both men and women, with 17.9% of workers experiencing it at some point during their employment. In India, this percentage is reported to be as high as 46% or even 55%.
According to a report by the UN International Labor Organization, the Lloyds Register Foundation, and Gallup, more than 22% of nearly 75,000 workers in 121 countries surveyed last year reported experiencing at least one type of violence or harassment.
A Tragic Example
The tragic suicide of a young employee at Axis Bank underscores the urgent need for stricter laws to address bullying and body shaming in India. Such incidents highlight the severe emotional impact that toxic behaviors can have on individuals.
For more details, read the full story [here]
Legal Framework in India
While there is no specific law for workplace bullying in India, several legal provisions address harassment at work:
– The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013: This Act focuses on sexual harassment but underscores the need for a safe working environment.
– The Indian Penal Code (IPC): Sections 354 (assault or criminal force to a woman with intent to outrage her modesty) and 509 (word, gesture, or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman) can be invoked in workplace bullying cases involving harassment of women.
– Industrial Employment (Standing Orders) Act, 1946: Mandates employers to clearly define misconduct, including bullying, and outline disciplinary procedures.
Global Perspective: Countries with Mandatory Workplace Bullying and Body Shaming Awareness
Several countries have mandated measures to address workplace bullying and body shaming, setting examples for India to consider:
– Australia: The Fair Work Act 2009 requires mandatory training and awareness programs.
– Canada: Provincial laws, such as the BC Workers Compensation Act, mandate required policies and procedures.
– UK: The Equality Act 2010 encourages regular training and awareness programs.
– EU: Regulations vary by country but often mandate training to prevent bullying.
– USA: State bills and EEOC guidelines address body shaming under broader discrimination laws.
Strategies for Employers to Combat Workplace Bullying and Body Shaming
Best Practices
- Develop Clear Policies: Establish anti-bullying and zero-tolerance policies to define unacceptable behaviors and reporting procedures.
- Foster a Supportive Culture: Promote respect and inclusion, with leadership setting the tone for respectful behavior.
- Provide Training and Awareness: Conduct regular training and bystander programs to educate employees on bullying and body shaming.
- Establish Support Systems: Offer counseling and create peer support groups for employees to share experiences.
- Encourage Reporting: Provide anonymous channels for reporting incidents and ensure prompt investigations.
- Implement Preventive Measures: Use regular surveys and feedback mechanisms to assess and improve the workplace environment.
What Victims and Witnesses Can Do
For Victims
– Document Incidents: Keep a record of what happened, including dates, times, and witnesses.
– Seek Support: Talk to colleagues, friends, or a counselor for emotional support.
– Report the Behavior: Use official channels to report incidents.
– Use Support Services: Access any available employee assistance programs.
– Know Your Rights: Be aware of the legal protections available.
– Practice Self-Care: Engage in activities that promote well-being and resilience.
For Witnesses
– Offer Support: Show empathy and offer to help the victim.
– Speak Up: Address the behavior if it is safe to do so.
– Report the Behavior: Use official channels to report incidents.
– Promote a Positive Culture: Encourage respect and inclusion in everyday interactions.
Conclusion
Addressing bullying and body shaming in the workplace is essential for creating a healthy, productive, and inclusive environment. Organizations can effectively combat these harmful behaviors by developing clear policies, fostering a supportive culture, providing training, and establishing strong support systems.
It’s time for companies to take a strong stand to ensure that every employee feels respected and valued, paving the way for a more positive and equitable workplace. We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences. How does your workplace address bullying and body shaming?
If you’ve experienced body shaming at your workplace, remember, you’re not alone!
Contact our counselors at 1800 121 9497 / wellness@cecureus.com/ www.eap.cecureus.com for guidance, support, and strategies to address and overcome workplace body shaming. Let’s work together to create a safe and secure workplace where everyone can thrive.
For more blogs and articles, visit our official website. Contact us for workshops and queries related to POSH, EAP (Employee Assistance Program), Diversity and Inclusion and Business Ethics & Code of Conduct.
