Workplace Violence

Bullying and Violence In the Workplace

Workplace bullying, often referred to as horizontal or lateral violence, is a growing problem in all industries. The impact on nurses experiencing bullying is no exception. There are many definitions of bullying but the underlying similarities include the fact that the incidents are persistent over a period of time, and demean or downgrade the individual through vicious verbal abuse, cruel acts, and premeditated situations, These actions are aimed at striping the individual of self-esteem and confidence. The problem, the results, and possible prevention strategies will be presented based on an invited paper by Bowen, Privitera, and Bowie (2011), “Reducing workplace violence by creating healthy workplace
According to Bowen (2006) it may be a reaction to bad or unhealthy environment referred to as the “bad barrel”. The policies, procedures, and practices of an organization have recently come under scrutiny as a possible cause of workplace violence. If the atmosphere for nurses, other staff members, and even patients is oppressed, violent, or unsafe, then those affected may resort to violent behavior as a response mechanism. Management must be wiling to look at the tone and practices of the organization and evaluate staff perceptions. If the staff sees the organization in a negative light immediate steps must be taken to correct course and alter perception. Employee productivity and retention are tied closely to the staff’s feelings toward the values and practices of the institute. Pride, esteem, excellence in service, caring, open-mindedness, team-spirit, recognition of accomplishments, fairness in decisions, and constant development and improvements all solidify an employee’s loyalty and desire to produce excellence in all workplace
The list includes thorough background checks for all perspective employees watching for signs of previous violent behavior and discipline problems. Create a workplace “Violence Protection” policy. Communicate the policy to all employees and be sure to explain the forms of bullying and harassment (including internet / cyber bullying), the consequences of unacceptable behavior, and disciplinary steps leading to possible termination for repeat offenders. Train all new hires immediately during orientation and all other employees annually about ways to prevent (primary prevention), de-escalate (secondary prevention), and personally respond (tertiary prevention) to workplace violence and bullying (Bowen, Privitera, & Bowie, 2011, p.188). This would include various positive and negative reactions to bullying such as confronting the attacker or reporting to superior versus avoidance or quitting job (Djurkovic, Mc Cormack, & Casimir, 2005, p.