I have been a victim of workplace bullying at over a half dozen companies. What am I doing wrong?

I was bullied since I was 10, then I started bullying someone else (it's addictive) and became a part of a group, then I realized how shitty this is and didn't do it anymore. It's one of those dumb human social games.

I was bullied simply because I wasn't acting like an asshole. It's like people can smell your fear and it fuels their anger, especially if you try to be friendly and reliable. I guess being friendly and reliable is only a good thing for extroverts, not for shy people. So I stopped. There is always the possibility of it happening, but that was it for me.

A lot of bullying began or was covered in teasing and joking that escalated. Remember that * some humans essentially behave like animals, this includes mating behavior as well as group dynamics * group dynamics makes outsiders an easy target and motivates insecure members to cross the line * humor often comes from aggression, that's why people feel the urge to make unfunny jokes, particularly males between 14 and 30, but it can be really anyone, there is nothing funny about that - though some are good at it * some do it because they are insecure about their social position, but some might have serious issues, be careful

Despite being a loner weirdo I'm not having trouble with bullies anymore. I don't participate in those social power games, but if I dislike someone I know that asking the right questions at the right time can make them look completely incompetent in front of the boss while making me look like I'm doing an excellent job.

/r/mentalhealth Thread