Workplace aggression

Workplace aggression is a troubling problem, victimizing about half of American workers (47 million), according to Occupational Health & Safety magazine.

According to a new national survey, more than 40 percent of American workers have experienced acts of psychological aggression, such as being screamed at, insulted or threatened with physical violence. Six percent have been victimized by acts of physical violence, such as being slapped, kicked or attacked with a weapon.

Nearly one-quarter of respondents indicate they were victims of aggression from members of the public (customers, clients or patients), while 15 percent report being victims of aggression from other employees and 13 percent from supervisors or bosses.

"Exposure to aggressive behavior at work is associated with a wide range of negative consequences for individuals and organizations, including negative work attitudes, reduced well-being, and, in cases of physical violence, bodily injury or death,” according to Aaron Schat, assistant professor at the DeGroote School of Business at McMaster University.