Nature Article about Academic Bullying Endorses University Ombuds

A recent commentary by Morteza Mahmoudi in Nature Human Behavior offers, "A survivor’s guide to academic bullying." He learned some key lessons that targets can employ to protect themselves and fight back. These include using their institution's Ombuds Office.

Here's an excerpt:

• First, try to document and record your interactions, including the abusive behaviour. ...
  
• Second, consult your institution’s ombudsperson or mediation office. The professionals there, trained in dealing with harassment and bullying, will listen to your issue and offer guidance. Often they do not have the power to act on your behalf, but they can advise you on the best course of action. ...
  
• Third, look for others who might be experiencing the same situation but are afraid of speaking up. ...
  
• Fourth, have an exit strategy in mind, ideally in advance. ...
  
• Starting the moment you decide to speak up, you should be prepared for retaliation—and it might come from unexpected sources and colleagues. ...
  
• And my last piece of advice: remind yourself that you are a target, not a victim.

These tips are in line with the kind of options Ombuds in all sectors identify for their bullied visitors. (Nature Human Behavior.)