---

Numerous work sectors have been the focus of inquiry to determine the prevalence of workplace bullying and to identify possible mitigating factors. The field of IT, however had never been empirically investigated prior to this research study. Using the social exchange theoretical framework as a foundation, the author investigated the prevalence of workplace bullying among IT professionals in the U.S. and the relationship between workplace bullying and psychological empowerment. The author makes the case for the possibility that workplace bullying is present in the IT work environment. In the last 30 years, the field of IT has been elevated by the market to one of the most important and powerful industry sectors on a global economic scale. This has implications on how IT professionals are perceived in the workplace and the well-being of the IT organizational culture is essential in order to save organizations money and improve stakeholder value. Cost savings and improved stakeholder value can be facilitated by ensuring that communication systems and dyadic interaction between leadership, managers, and the IT professionals are adequate.

---

Dr. Cynthia V. Marcello has over 15 years experience in computer information systems consulting, development and management. She has a Doctor of Management in Information Systems and maintains the position of Assistant Professor of Computer Information Systems Programming at Sullivan County Community College (SUNY) in Loch Sheldrake, NY.

---