Psychological Abuse At The Workplace

ABOUT THE ABUSER

If the abuse can be isolated to an individual or small group, then the power and opportunity to abuse can be reduced. Where possible, change the job role of the abusers and remove them from any activity where they will have influence over workers who could be vulnerable. Induction programs, mentoring programs, leaders of small task groups and controlling the work schedules of individuals are not for these people. Do not reward any outcome that has been completed at the expense of someone else’s health. Identify specific behaviour and, whenever possible, document the abusive behaviour. Challenge the behaviour at every opportunity. Back up the challenge with documented evidence. Challenge the abuser’s explanation with clarifying questions and insist on specific answers to questions. Unless the abuser takes responsibility for abusive behaviour, no change can occur.

Reproduced with the express permission of Robyn Mann (2000).

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