NCJ Number
213224
Date Published
2005
Length
14 pages
Annotation
This discussion of the reform of an organization characterized by abusive behavior among and to employees first defines "negative interpersonal behavior" (NiB) and "negative organizational behavior" (NoB) and then suggests organizational policies and procedures that can prevent and reduce these behaviors.
Abstract
NiB involves abusive behavior between individuals on the job. It can take many forms, but has the ultimate effect of undermining an employee's self-confidence and self-worth. NiB includes bullying, harassment, discrimination, verbal abuse, and intimidation by one employee or a group of employees toward another employee or group of employees. Organizations must first recognize that such behaviors are occurring among employees by encouraging them to express their concerns about NiB. In describing an organizational procedure for dealing with NiB, this chapter notes the importance of having a well-written policy that addresses such behavior and a complaint process likely to identify and resolve specific incidents of NiB. NoB involves organizational systems and policies that fail to support or otherwise undermine or harm employees. NoB develops and persists when organizations fail to seek employee input regarding how they are being affected by various organizational systems and policies. Organizational decisions made to serve the interests of the employer without regard for their impact on employees are likely to result in NoB. Reform of NoB involves seeking input from employees about their job-related needs, whether or not current organizational policies are meeting those needs, and the kinds of changes that would improve working conditions. 29 references