Experiences of Workplace Bullying Among Workers With Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders: A Qualitative Assessment...

Previous studies suggest that workers with disabilities are susceptible to workplace bullying. Additionally, research indicates that filing compensation claims can strain employer-employee relationships. This study investigates experiences of workplace bullying among workers diagnosed with work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs).

Qualitative interview data from 11 male and 10 female workers with physician-diagnosed WRMSDs were analyzed using the constructs of the Negative Acts Questionnaire-Revised, which encompasses three domains: work-related bullying (7 items), personal bullying (12 items), and physically intimidating bullying (3 items). Their self-rated health and psychological status were also evaluated.

Among the 21 workers, 10 experienced at least one form of workplace bullying. The most commonly reported form was "pressure not to claim something to which you are entitled" (9 workers), followed by "hints or signals from others that you should quit your job" (5 workers), "having your opinions ignored" (3 workers), and "being given unmanageable workloads" (3 workers). Workers who experienced workplace bullying were more likely to report poor health and psychological distress.

Occupational health professionals should pay close attention to the nature, forms, and impacts of negative behaviors experienced by workers with WRMSDs. Appropriate interventions should be implemented to address conflicts between workers and management arising from work-related disabilities and to better support workers in their rehabilitation process.