[Dysfunctional workplace organization and mobbing. 4 representative cases].

BACKGROUND

Stress and psychological harassment at work are increasing worldwide, according to International Agencies (European Community, NIOSH) and to most authors.

OBJECTIVES

To describe typical working situations responsible for distress and mobbing, with the aim of early diagnosis and effectiveness of therapy and rehabilitation.

METHODS

Four cases are reported as representative of dysfunctional organization producing distress and pathology or inducing mobbing behavior or mobbing without clear organization responsibilities.

CONCLUSIONS

In all cases dysfunctional organization appeared to have played a significant role even though not always a direct one. Also, common characteristics were highlighted in the three cases where mobbing was recognized.