An Analysis of Harassment

As we continue to examine this phenomenon, one particular aspect requires a careful examination: the dismantling of the victim.

This process involves specific stages that are not apparent to the victim because, very often, they are unaware that they are being targeted by a harasser.

The harasser will sow doubt in the victim’s mind, causing them to wonder whether they are ‘flawed’—whether because they fail to understand an event or a set of instructions; or because they are unable to react in the expected way (cognitively), in the appropriate way (ethically), or in a way that is fair to others (emotionally). Gradually, these three levels become blurred, meaning that identity dissolves into a shapeless mass due to a loss of meaning in a situation and in one’s own presence within a context.

The aim is to instil doubt about one’s identity: ‘I thought I possessed such-and-such a quality, but perhaps I was deluding myself; I thought I had succeeded in this task, but I didn’t realise that others didn’t share that view; I believed I had acted with respect for the other person, but I had offended them”, etc. “Consequently, I am not the person I thought I was, so what am I, and therefore, who am I?”

These questions eventually begin to gnaw at the person, who finds himself/herself unsettled and thrown off balance in relation to their self-image—and consequently, how others perceive them—to such an extent that they withdraw so that others can no longer see them, since they are already unable to maintain their image for themselves and no longer have the strength to put on a front. Yet an image is based on a belief, and self-belief enables one to take initiative and participate in the collective narrative of a workplace.

This constant questioning of oneself leads to nervous, and even physical, exhaustion, and can result in ‘burnout’, not only due to the accumulation of tasks that are part of the harassment, but above all due to the collapse of self-esteem and self-belief.

The victim is then ready to face the ultimate question that will cast him/her into a state of non-existence: ‘Ultimately, isn’t the problem you?’ This question is characteristic of an accusatory reversal formulated as a negative question, which amounts to manipulation.

Finally, a crucial stage in the harassment process involves turning an opinion into a value. A value creates a consensus within a social context; it is inconceivable to oppose it without risking exclusion. This is why the harasser will use certain terms to disguise the opinion as a value and thus influence the victim’s circle of acquaintances, who will distance themselves from the victim to complete the process. The opinion will be generalised and expanded to resemble a truth.

At this stage, all the ingredients are in place for a personal breakdown, which therefore goes beyond one’s professional identity. Having met people who have suffered burnout caused by harassment, I have observed lasting damage to their sense of self, to mention just that. Whilst current legislation strengthens prevention and legal action through criminal sanctions, specific support for victims is essential as their mental and cognitive functions are affected in the long term. This support remains far below the actual needs of victims.