Mobning i arbejdslivet: Hvorfor og for hvem er den så belastende?

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Victims of workplace bullying or mobbing exhibit a wide range of psychological, psychosomatic and musculoskeletal symptoms. The pattern of symptoms displayed is a strong indication that some develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, no comprehensive theory has yet been forwarded as to why exposure to bullying may result in severe symptoms of stress. This article addresses such a problem. In accordance with Janoff-Bulman's cognitive theory of PTSD it is argued that workplace bullying may threaten to shatter basic positive assumptions victims hold of themselves, other people and the world. Several factors probably contribute to this: The bullied persons typically see themselves as victims of malevolent others. Moreover they often report being unjustly treated. Many victims also experience secondary traumatisation such as lack of social support, which may further exacerbate their symptoms. Workplace bullying may also pose a threat to victims' desired Identity images. Furthermore, it may constitute a real or perceived threat to their financial well being and societal status. In accordance with transactional stress theory this article also discusses how victims' exposure to other traumatic life-events, their perceived locus of control, generalised self-efficacy, attributional style and coping strategies may play an important role in explaining individual differences in reported strain.