When Camaraderie Turns Toxic: Mobbing in Policing

Workplace mobbing isn’t just bullying; it’s bullying with backup. In policing, where camaraderie and teamwork are integral to the profession, mobbing can be especially devastating. Let’s tackle this issue head-on.

What is Mobbing?

Mobbing is group bullying: a systematic campaign of harassment, exclusion, and intimidation, often orchestrated by one or more ringleaders who rally others to target a colleague. The goal? To isolate, harass and discredit a target. And often to ultimately push the target out of the workplace. Unlike one-on-one bullying, mobbing thrives on group dynamics and can be subtle. It can involve rumors, exclusion, and microaggressions, as well as overt hostility.

Research shows that nearly one in five workers have experienced group bullying, and in policing, the effects are magnified by the close-knit nature of the profession. Targets may be those who are different, marginalized, or simply high-performing and ethical, making them stand out in a way that attracts negative attention.

What is Mobbing Up?

While mobbing often targets peers, “upward mobbing” or “mobbing up” happens when employees band together to push out a supervisor or manager. This can be especially toxic in policing, where rank and authority are central to the job. Upward mobbing may involve undermining a supervisor’s credibility, spreading rumors, or coordinated resistance to leadership decisions. Mobbing can also be horizontal (peer to peer), and downward (manager to subordinate), both of which can be deeply damaging to those targeted.

Why is Policing Vulnerable to Mobbing?

Several dynamics make mobbing particularly problematic in policing:

• Rigid Hierarchies: Policing is built on rank, badges, and clear lines of authority. This can foster environments where power is misused and deviation from the norm is punished. Officers may feel pressure to conform, and those who challenge the status quo risk becoming targets.
• Limited Exit Options: Because opportunities to move to another employer are scarce, leaving isn’t easy. This could mean that those targeted by mobbing may be forced to endure it for years.
• Culture of Silence: The “thin blue line” can become a shield of silence, making it hard for victims to speak up or for bystanders to intervene. Officers may fear reprisals or being seen as weak, so mobbing persists unchecked.
• Lack of Diversity: Homogenous workplaces, especially those dominated by one gender, are more likely to marginalize those who stand out. In policing, this can mean that anyone who doesn’t fit the mold is at greater risk.
• High Stress and Competition: Policing is a high-pressure job, and resource scarcity or organizational change can escalate tensions, fueling mobbing.

The Impact

Mobbing obliterates psychological health and safety. Targets experience anxiety, depression, sleep problems, and even physical symptoms like headaches and high blood pressure. Productivity drops, morale suffers, and the organization risks costly litigation and reputational damage. In policing, the stakes are even higher: low morale and fractured teams can compromise officer safety and public trust.

Tips for Police Services to Limit Mobbing

Here are practical steps police services can take:

• Promote Respect and Inclusion: Model respectful behavior at all levels. Make it clear that exclusion and microaggressions are unacceptable.
• Break Up Toxic Cliques: If you spot factions or negative group dynamics, intervene early to dismantle them.
• Upstander and Supervisor Training: Empower employees to speak up against mobbing. Ensure supervisors and managers can recognize and address mobbing before it escalates.
• Make Reporting Safe: Create safe channels for reporting mobbing and act swiftly when reprisals occur.
• Hold People Accountable Early: Address not just overt harassment, but also subtle exclusionary behaviors. Don’t let mobbing fester. Early intervention is key.

Mobbing in policing is a serious issue. But it’s not inevitable. By fostering respect, breaking the silence, and acting decisively, police services can protect their people and their mission. If you’re curious about how to build a safer, more inclusive workplace, reach out for training and support.