We have quite a clique at work and I've witnessed them discussing other colleagues (occasionally even disclosing confidential matters in informal conversations between themselves) and attempting to micromanage others. Sometimes it is justified (if a colleague isn't doing what they are supposed to or slacking). However they hate it when anyone questions the current practices at work (even if politely and constructively referencing potential alternatives). They have also been bossy towards myself and others. I feel so uncomfortable around them them and it's knocking my confidence. I usually try to ask questions about our working practices with a view to understand or seek out ways to improve. I also often air my frustrations (in what I feel is a constructive way). Anytime I express an opinion that goes against theirs they become passive aggressive. I had a task to do that I wasn't sure was appropriate so I wanted to run it by a manager so I told one of them that was what I intended to do and went about other tasks in the meantime. They replied by saying "Just leave it then!" and walked off. On other occasions this person has tried to pressure me in to doing tasks I am not conformable with. I would however be more than happy to receive training to do them.
My colleagues have told me to just accept the status quo, play along with their need to feel superior and then just let it go and get on with things as best I can. That's how they deal with it.
I do need to implement some kind of coping strategy as it is grating on me and I don't want to react in an emotional way.