The American Psychological Association describes bullying as deliberate, repeated behavior intended to cause harm, discomfort, or distress—whether through physical actions, words, or more subtle conduct. Sadly, this type of behavior isn’t limited to schools or workplaces. It can also appear in community associations, impacting board members, managers, and residents alike.
Bullying in an association setting is more than an unpleasant interaction—it can be a form of workplace harassment or even workplace violence. When directed at employees, it can lead to higher sick leave usage, increased healthcare costs, lower morale, and high turnover. When homeowners consistently challenge the board, harass community managers, or cause conflict with neighbors, it disrupts governance and creates a toxic environment.
Types of Bullying in Community Associations
Bullying can take different forms:
- Verbal Abuse – Often the most common, it can erode confidence, create anxiety, and damage emotional well-being.
- Cyberbullying – Online harassment via email, social media, or digital platforms can hurt both individuals and the association’s reputation, creating potential legal exposure.
- Disruptive Conduct – Public outbursts, harassment during meetings, and hostile interactions with residents or staff can derail productivity and decision-making.
Best Practices for Addressing Bullying
When dealing with a bully in your association—whether a resident, board member, or staff—it’s important to address the behavior promptly and constructively.
- Address the Issue Privately
- Speak one-on-one in a neutral setting, focusing on specific behaviors and how they negatively impact others and association operations.
- Bring a Witness if Needed
- If you anticipate escalation, have a trusted colleague or board member present for support.
- Focus on Actions, Not Character
- Critique the conduct, not the person. Ask questions to understand their perspective, and emphasize the shared goal of improving the community.
- Stick to Facts
- Avoid emotional arguments. Keep the conversation professional and solutions-focused.
- Adopt a Code of Conduct
- Implement clear standards for board members, managers, and residents. Require acknowledgment and enforce it consistently.
- Know Your Legal Tools
- Review governing documents, HR policies, and applicable laws. In some cases, you may have authority to remove or reassign roles, issue warnings, or levy fines.
- Use Formal Measures if Necessary
- If behavior persists, consider adopting a formal resolution, working with legal counsel, or issuing a cease-and-desist order.
Promoting a Culture of Respect
Disagreements are inevitable, but disrespect should never be tolerated. By setting clear boundaries, fostering open communication, and holding all parties accountable, boards can create an environment that discourages bullying and supports healthy governance.
The Civility Pledge
Strong leadership means guiding your community through challenging discussions while maintaining respect and collaboration. By adopting CAI’s Community Association Civility Pledge, boards commit to respectful dialogue, balanced decision-making, and fostering unity, even when addressing tough issues.
Creating a respectful culture is not just about rules—it’s about setting the tone for your entire community. When board members, managers, and residents embrace civility, everyone benefits.