Abusive behavior in the workplace: a preliminary investigation

Area of Science:

• Organizational Behavior
• Workplace Psychology
• Social Psychology

Background:

• Hostile interpersonal relationships at work are prevalent but under-researched, except for sexual harassment.
• Abusive work interactions involve nonphysical, hostile verbal and nonverbal behaviors aimed at undermining others.
• These interactions are more frequent, tolerated, and potentially more damaging than often acknowledged.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of nonsexual, nonphysical abusive behavior experienced by students in their jobs.
• To assess the impact of such abusive behavior on job satisfaction and employee turnover.
• To identify characteristics of those perpetrating and experiencing abusive behavior and their responses.

Main Methods:

• Survey research methodology was employed.
• Data were collected from students regarding their experiences with abusive workplace behaviors.
• Analysis focused on the relationship between abusive interactions, job satisfaction, and intention to leave.

Main Results:

• While most student interactions were positive, exposure to abusive behavior was common and frequent.
• Abusive workplace interactions were found to negatively impact job satisfaction and increase turnover intentions.
• Perpetrators were often bosses, older than the targets, and the quality of relationships correlated with job satisfaction.

Conclusions:

• Nonsexual, nonphysical abusive behaviors are a significant issue in the workplace, affecting job satisfaction and retention.
• Individual, situational, and organizational factors likely contribute to the occurrence and impact of these behaviors.
• Further research is needed to fully understand and address the nature, extent, and impact of abusive interpersonal interactions at work.