Hi, Chris - thanks for a helpful and timely post about a workplace issue that I really wish were in the rearview mirror.

You have covered this issue in a comprehensive fashion.  I can only add that I believe many employees contribute to workplace bullying because they do not resist it.  This applies to both those who are victims and "laugh it off" or just say nothing, and to those who see bullying and do not speak up.  The lack of company policies supporting these positive actions may be partly to blame, but everyone has their own ethical standards to consider as well.

Bullies are usually considered to be cowards in the main.  While bullies who hold power will often abuse that power for their own ends, they can and should be resisted.

As so often happens, we have to consider the role of workplace culture here.  Everything you identified contributes to that culture, along with individuals actions and inactions.

Great post on an important issue - I'm sharing this one:)

John