Psychological Harassment at Workplaces Quiz

A Comparative Study of Psychological Harassment at Workplaces

In this article, we'll delve into the troubling and far-reaching topic of psychological harassment at work, exploring its effects on mental health, its impact on productivity, and the strategies that can help prevent it.

Reshaping the Definition of Harassment

Psychological harassment, also known as workplace bullying, isn't just about a single incident but, rather, a repetitive pattern of behavior that's intentionally designed to undermine a person or group of people's sense of well-being at work. This behavior can take various forms, such as:

• Verbal abuse
• Exclusion and isolation
• Spreading false rumors
• Setting impossible deadlines
• Inappropriate work-related comments
• Nonverbal cues indicating dislike or contempt

Effects on Mental Health

Research has demonstrated that psychological harassment can have devastating consequences on an individual's mental health. Victims of workplace bullying often experience:

• Increased stress levels, leading to symptoms such as sleep disturbances, headaches, and gastrointestinal problems
• Decreased self-esteem, self-confidence, and self-worth
• Higher likelihood of depression, anxiety, and burnout
• Increased risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder

Impact on Productivity

It's not just mental health that's affected by psychological harassment; an individual's productivity can also suffer. A study conducted by Namie and Namie found that psychological harassment can lead to:

• Decreased motivation and engagement at work
• Increased absenteeism
• Lower job satisfaction
• Higher turnover rates
• Reduced creativity and innovation
• Lower job performance

Prevention Strategies

Preventing psychological harassment in the workplace is a challenge, but it's not impossible. Employers and employees alike can take steps to create a more positive and supportive work environment.

• Establish a clear policy against psychological harassment, including defining what constitutes harassment and outlining the consequences of violating the policy
• Train employees on the policy and its implications
• Encourage open communication and create a safe environment for employees to report incidents of harassment
• Address incidents of harassment promptly and effectively
• Provide employees with resources and support, such as counseling or employee assistance programs
• Foster a culture of respect and empathy in the workplace
• Encourage teamwork and collaboration among employees

In conclusion, psychological harassment is a serious issue that can have far-reaching consequences for both individuals and organizations. Understanding the effects on mental health and productivity, as well as implementing prevention strategies, is essential for creating a healthy and thriving work environment. By staying informed and taking action, we can all play a part in combating psychological harassment in the workplace.