Evidence synthesis on the occurrence, causes, consequences, prevention and management of bullying and harassment behaviours to inform decision making in the NHS

Abstract

Background
\nWorkplace bullying is a persistent problem in the NHS with negative implications for individuals, teams, and organisations. Bullying is a complex phenomenon and there is a lack of evidence on the best approaches to manage the problem.
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\nAims
\nResearch questions
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\nWhat is known about the occurrence, causes, consequences and management of bullying and inappropriate behaviour in the workplace?
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\nObjectives
\nSummarise the reported prevalence of workplace bullying and inappropriate behaviour. 
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\nSummarise the empirical evidence on the causes and consequences of workplace bullying and inappropriate behaviour. 
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\nDescribe any theoretical explanations of the causes and consequences of workplace bullying and inappropriate behaviour. 
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\nSynthesise evidence on the preventative and management interventions that address workplace bullying interventions and inappropriate behaviour. 
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\nMethods
\nTo fulfil a realist synthesis approach the study was designed across four interrelated component parts:
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\nPart 1: A narrative review of the prevalence, causes and consequences of workplace bullying
\nPart 2: A systematic literature search and realist review of workplace bullying interventions
\nPart 3: Consultation with international bullying experts and practitioners
\nPart 4: Identification of case studies and examples of good practice