NCJ Number
208791
Journal
Security Journal Volume: 18 Issue: 1 Dated: 2005 Pages: 55-66
Date Published
2005
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This study examined the nature and effects of frequent forms of workplace violence, i.e., threats, stalking, simple assault, harassment, and violence stemming from relationship issues.
Abstract
Given that these forms of workplace violence resemble the sudden and destructive nature of land mines, this term is used to refer to this category of workplace violence. An introductory literature review focuses on the scope of workplace violence, gender issues in workplace violence, the hidden dangers of workplace land mines, and identifying the hidden land mines. For the current research, a sample was drawn from an organization that employed nearly 100,000 workers in all 50 U.S. States. Participants represented 50 workplaces in 6 districts and States. At all of the sites, employees were involved in a wide range of jobs. A self-administered questionnaire was developed to collect data on employee experiences of workplace land mines over the previous 5 years. A total of 1,295 questionnaires were distributed at the employer's continuing professional education seminars during 1999, and 971 questionnaires were completed; 55 percent of the questionnaires mailed to absent employees were returned (n=370). Overall, the findings indicate that large numbers of employees had experienced land mines, with women being the most likely victims. Data are presented by the nature of the land mine, the type of victim/offender relationship in which the land mine occurred, and the job position of the victim. The results suggest that although workplace land mines may not be as visible or result in as serious physical injuries as extreme workplace violence, they can result in deep emotional and psychological effects that impact morale and job performance. 3 tables and 49 notes