Verbal Abuse in the Workplace

There are many types of harassment in theHe or she may never feel completely adequate at his
workplace; one of the main types being verbal abuse.or her work, alienated from the abuser as well as
What constitutes something as verbal abuse? Theother coworkers, emotionally stressed, or even feel
fact is, any language that impedes maintaining acompelled to quit. Coworkers may inadvertently
professional rapport in the office or within individualsencourage these feelings if they have never
due to intimidation, belittling, hurtful language, orpersonally felt the same and express to the victim
mental and emotional isolation.that he or she may be exaggerating or trying to
The Abusercreate "drama" in the workplace.
The most common type of workplace abuse derivesSigns of Verbal Abuse in the Workplace:
from an abuser who has a "higher standing" or is a- Constant feeling of work inadequacy
"veteran" within the company or institution. The- Being constantly ignored and treated differently
abuser usually creates their own universe where he- Sarcastic remarks with the intent of bringing
or she must abuse or put someone down in order tosomeone down
feel better about him or herself. It is not uncommon- Feeling alienated from others in the workplace
for an abuser to have had a rough or abusive- Use of inappropriate or derogatory language
childhood. For abusers, it is easier for to hide how he- Supervisors using his or her authority in an improper
or she feels inside with distractingly abusive behavior.manner
The abuser usually wants empathy and respect from- Coworkers attempting to overstep their boundaries
the victim and feels he or she can achieve this bywith condescending words
forceful means and without having to develop a- Performance critiques discussed in public work
genuine relationship with the other.settings
The Victim- Any situation that hinders developing or maintaining
An abusive relationship is usually a confusing scenarioa professional relationship with someone
for the victim. He or she is usually unaware of whatFor more information on verbal abuse in the
kind of life the abuser faced as a child or prior to hisworkplace and how to do deal with it, please visit the
or her current employment. Most professionals wouldHouston Employment Lawyer of the Ross Law
like to maintain a equal relationship with his or herGroup.
coworker, supervisor, or other work-related contact.