Women Academics’ Learning as a Result of Being Bullied

Abstract

Like other workplaces, bullying occurs in academia. Additionally, women report more frequent and severe forms of bullying than men. The purpose of this qualitative study was to unearth women academics’ learning because of being bullied. We discuss the learning context and explore the learning that occurred. Understanding these factors can augment the literature on bullying in academia. As a result of being bullied, women fundamentally changed their perceptions of themselves, others, their respective institutions, and their priorities. This study reveals how women can gain skills and have negative and positive changes in worldview. We offer practical suggestions for faculty, administrators, and institutions to promote learning from the experience of being bullied.