Workplace bullying is abusive conduct that is sabotaging and interferes with an employee’s work or prevents the employee from getting his or her work done.

As reported by Los Angeles Times, Gretchen Carlson complained of a hostile work environment at Fox News and accused her superior Roger Ailes of career sabotaging after she rejected sexual advances from him in the workplace. In July 2016, Carlson filed a sexual harassment lawsuit after working 11 years at Fox News and receiving a non- renewal contract.

Fox News, parent company of 21 Century Fox issued a written apology to Carlson and settled a $20 million lawsuit with Carlson to end the workplace dispute. The statement reads, “21st Century Fox is pleased to announce that it has settled Gretchen Carlson’s lawsuit. During her tenure at Fox News, Gretchen exhibited the highest standards of journalism and professionalism. She developed a loyal audience and was a daily source of information for many Americans. We are proud that she was part of the Fox News team. We sincerely regret and apologize for the fact that Gretchen was not treated with the respect and dignity that she and all of our colleagues deserve”

In a statement by Carlson, she said, “I am gratified that 21st Century Fox took decisive action after I filed my complaint. I’m ready to move on to the next chapter of my life in which I will redouble my efforts to empower women in the workplace. I want to thank all the brave women who came forward to tell their own stories and the many people across the country who embraced and supported me in their “StandWithGretchen.” All women deserve a dignified and respectful workplace in which talent, hard work and loyalty is recognized, revered and rewarded.”

While Carlson’s complaint resembles one example of a hostile work environment, 65.6 million working American experienced or witnessed abusive conduct during their workday (Workplace Bullying Institute).

As an intervention to this problem, Ronald Holmes recently released a new book on, “Eradicating Workplace Bullying: A Guide to Every Organization.” This book provides real-life experiences and tips from employees who have been victims of workplace bullying in industries such as education, business, government and healthcare. The book presents research-based strategies that Human Resources representatives can use to address bullying situations. The book also serves as a reference guide to an online anti-bullying program that provides training for all employees and managers.

To order the book, visit: Amazon.com.

Dr. Ronald Holmes is the author of 14 books and publisher of “The Holmes Education Post,” an education focused Internet newspaper.  Holmes is a former teacher, school administrator, test developer and district superintendent. He can be reached at [email protected]