Workplace bullying, (also known as “Power harassment” in Japan) is defined as a form of bullying by those who are in a higher work position.
Based on Japan's Labor Policy Comprehensive Promotion Act, Power Harassment consists of “remarks and behaviour of people taking advantage of their superior positions in the workplace that exceed what is necessary and appropriate for the conduct of business, thereby harming the working environment of employees”.
Examples of Power Harassment include, but are not limited to, physical abuse, emotional abuse (e.g. threats, defamation, insults, rants), and excessive demand at work (e.g. unnecessary requests, unfulfillable tasks, obstruction of work).