Exploring bullying among Indian managers: a grounded theory approach

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to explore the phenomenon of workplace bullying – its nature, antecedents, direct and indirect effects – from victim’s perspective. Design/methodology/approach The study adopted grounded theory approach and centered on the participants experiences and interpretations of bullying. A total of 23 self-reported victims formed the sample of our study. Data from interviews were analyzed using the coding procedure of grounded theory methodology. To enhance validity of results, in addition to interviews, creative drawings were used for triangulation. Findings The study reveals some similarities and culturally relevant variation in the sources and outcomes of bullying. The role of culture on bullying is visible. The study also adds to the limited literature on underlying and intervening factors in bullying–outcome relationship. Research limitations/implications The study examined bullying from the victim’s perspective. Perpetrator and bystander’s perspectives would have added interesting insights into the findings. Practical implications Effective identification of, prevention of and intervention in workplace bullying are imperative for individuals and organizations. Rich descriptions from victims on enablers of bullying and how these events have affected their everyday experiences may also boost practitioners’ and policymakers’ willingness to rectify the potential issues leading to bullying in organizations. Originality/value The present study contributes to the workplace bullying research in general and Indian context in particular by examining contextually relevant antecedents, consequences as well as underlying and intervening factors.