It sounds like something more common on schoolyards than in business, but this latest trend could have more employees running for teachers’ help — or worse.

Joseph Doescher, a hospital operating room technician, is one of the latest employees to successfully sue an individual and company for bullying in the workplace. At a $325,000 price tag, the suit raises questions about what’s no longer tolerable in the office.

According to Doescher, a surgeon became upset over reports to the hospital administration about his treatment of O.R. techs. After seeing him, the surgeon aggressively advanced toward him while screaming and swearing. The surgeon then stormed past Doescher, muttering, “You’re finished, your history,” under his breath.

Doescher sued the surgeon for assault (even though no physical contact was made), intentional infliction of emotional distress and tortious interference with employment. A court agreed, and the surgeon was held responsible for the compensatory damages.

What do you think? Was the incident a real example of workplace bullying, or did Doescher’s suit twist the meaning of the term?

Cite: Supreme Court, Raess v. Doescher, No. 49S02-0710-CV-424.

Popularity: 1% [?]

Tags: Assault, Compensatory damages, Emotional distress, Tort, Workplace bullying