Bullying is something that many of us hope is left far behind by the time we emerge from high school and step into the adult world here in New Jersey. Unfortunately, as many people learn, belittling and harassment can continue into adulthood. In fact, a recent study has found that bullying can be prevalent even in the workplace–the environment in which adults are supposed to be professional, and at their very best behavior.

The Michigan State University study uncovered that adult bullies tend to have the same prejudices as their child and teenage counterparts. Just like in the schoolyard, in the workplace those who are thought to be less attractive are more likely to be intimidated and treated poorly by others.

The university researchers reached these results after surveying 114 health care workers. The workers were asked how often their colleagues were rude to them, made fun of them or said hurtful things, among other types of cruel behavior.

It turned out that those workers who were less attractive were treated much worse than attractive employees, even when the results were controlled for things like gender, age and seniority.

While it might be discouraging to hear that looks hold so much weight at work, the study did reveal a hopeful finding, too. The researchers studied the friendliness of workers, and reported that workers who are agreeable are likely to be treated better than unfriendly workers.

So, the researchers concluded that both looks and personality matter in the workplace.

Those who are discriminated against at work because of their appearance may be limited when it comes to seeking legal recourse. As we’ve previously discussed, attractiveness is not a protected status under anti-discrimination laws. Nonethless, in a number of cases, bullying may rise to the level of illegal gender, race or age discrimination or even sexual harassment.

As such, those who are being treated cruelly or unfairly at work may want to discuss the situation with an employment law attorney to learn about their employment rights and options.

Source: Psych Central, “Can’t Get Ahead at Work? Unattractive Workers Suffer in the Workplace,” Rick Nauert, June 20, 2013