This study examined bullying in three New Zealand industries: education, health, and hospitality. Key findings include: 1) Bullying was reported by 25% of respondents, with some experiencing it weekly or more often. The nature of negative behaviors varied between organizations. 2) Bullying was correlated with lower well-being, higher strain, and less organizational support and constructive leadership. 3) Effective organizational strategies and problem-focused coping were associated with less reported bullying, while laissez-faire leadership was associated with more bullying.

1. Bullying and stress in three New Zealand industry sectors Michael O’Driscoll, U of Waikato Tim Bentley, Massey U Bevan Catley, Massey U Helena Cooper-Thomas, U of Auckland Dianne Gardner, Massey U Linda Trenberth, Birkbeck College (London) Presentation to NZ Psychological Society annual conference Palmerston North, 27-30 August 2009 Project funded by the Health Research Council and the Department of Labour