Key content The definition of bullying is wide and relies on individual perception., Bullying has significant consequences: bullied healthcare workers report higher levels of job-induced stress, depression and anxiety and lower levels of job satisfaction., There have been several surveys on bullying of healthcare workers., Deaneries must formulate strategies to support all those involved in allegations of bullying., Learning objectives To appreciate the difficulties of defining bullying., To be able to distinguish constructive supervision from bullying behaviour., To be aware of the resources available to manage bullying behaviour., Ethical issues In implementing effective and appropriate remedial measures there is the potential for breaching confidentiality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]