The experiences of employees regarding workplace violence in the National Department of Social Development

Abstract

Workplace violence is a phenomenon which is growing and it has the potential to affect individual performance and organizational productivity. The aim of the study was to explore the experiences of employees regarding workplace violence in the National Department of Social Development. The researcher was motivated to choose this subject as a result of her observation working as Employee Health and Wellness Manager in the same Department whereby there were cases reported were related to workplace violence such as poor working relationships, conflict , work related stress and high level of mental health. Furthermore, lack of research and literature studies concerning workplace violence motivated the research. The qualitative approach was utilized and semi-structured interviews were used to gather data about the experiences of employees utilizing interview scheduled, 10 employees who were employees of the National Department of Social Development were interviewed. Purposive sampling method was used to select the suitable participants of the study who met the specific defined criteria. The type of research utilised was applied research to explore the experiences of employees regarding workplace violence and to give meaning to it. A collective case study was used to focus on participants who have experienced workplace violence in order to understand the types of workplace violence that were experienced, the effects it had on individuals as well as factors contributing to workplace violence in the National Department of Social Development. Theoretical overview that was discussed focused on understanding the how the different concepts related to workplace violence is defined in literature as well as looking at the effects of workplace violence on employees and employer as well as highlighting the different types of workplace violence. The research findings indicated that workplace violence is well conceptualised by the employees of Social Development and they understand the meaning of workplace violence. The study has also confirmed that workplace violence exists within the department and most of participants have experienced internal workplace violence.