Abuse of authority and position is an arbitrary or capricious exercise of power by a military member, federal official or employee that injures or adversely affects the rights of a subordinate by tyrannical, careless or capricious conduct or continuous and/or severe abusive language.

Abuse of position includes a wide range of subjects such as improper use of title/position/rank (see Ethics). Abuse of position may involve discrimination, i.e., creation of a hostile work environment, see Equal Employment.

Military Members: Many complaints are best addressed within the chain of command. For example, complaints of wrongs may be handled through the Division or Command Master Chief, Division or Department Head, Commanding Officer's Request Mast, NAVREGS Article 1150 (Redress of Wrong Committed by a Superior), UCMJ Article 138 (Complaint of Wrongs Against the Commanding Officer). Before filing an Article 138 or 1150, we recommend you consult with a Legal Officer or Judge Advocate.