Is workplace harassment generic or a result of context?

Abstract

Harassment at work remains a significant problem and, in its various guises, threatens the wellbeing of those affected, and the integrity and internal equilibrium of an organisation. It seeks to capitalise on, and possibly magnify, organisational power differentials in order to gain an advantage over others for personal or organisational exploitation and, perhaps, gratification. The power differential exploited can be derived from differing levels of organisational status as well from the differing influencing styles and behaviour.