Researchers estimate that between 10 percent and 30 percent of employees have been bullied at work. Bullies lower workplace morale, resulting in absenteeism, reduced productivity and high staff turnover. In extreme cases, they can lead victims to react with physical violence. Business needs to get a better handle on dealing with the problem, according to Loraleigh Keashly, associate professor of communication at Wayne State and director of the Master of Arts in Dispute Resolution Program. Keashly worked with other researchers to reduce bullying among staff at 11 U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs facilities in a recent four-year study. The study points up the need for more effective strategies to manage differences and address inappropriate behavior, she said.