The experiences of employees regarding workplace violence in the South African Police Service

Abstract

The research study investigates the experiences of employees regarding workplace violence in the South African Police Service. The researcher utilises a qualitative research approach in gaining deeper understanding of experiences of employees regarding workplace violence through first-hand data from the participants, as well as the meaning they attach to their experiences. The researches uses the phenomenological design to understand and interpret meaning participants attach to experiences of workplace violence. Unstructured one-to-one interviews and a tape recorder were used to gather data from ten (10) participants. The researcher used a qualitative analysis to grasp the richness of themes deriving from the participants’ narration. The analysis involved transcribing and interpreting data. The study used both non-probability and probability sampling techniques as a sampling method. The non-probability sampling involves purposive sampling, whereas probability sampling involves systematic sampling method where the researcher selected the “first case randomly” from the list. The empirical findings revealed that participants experienced verbal violence through insult and threat from their colleagues, including their immediate seniors. The majority of the participants that reported victimisation were in the same category of Inspector rank. Physical violence was reported by a few participants. Some participants were exposed to bullying by their superiors. The participants attached different meanings to their experiences of workplace violence. The meaning includes among others, lack of self control, lack of experience, attitudes, lack of proper communication, lack of implementation, lack of monitoring system, feelings of inferiority, cultural stereotypes, lack of leadership skills, as well as religious belief systems. Through the data that has been gathered from the participants, it is highly recommended that the South African Police Service considers conducting workshops and seminars on effective communication and optimising relationship management in the workplace in order to prevent workplace violence. Transparency is also recommended for any policies and procedures that are put in place, particularly on promotions and incentives, as lack of transparency tends to confuse employees. The development of policies and procedures on how to deal with workplace violence would benefit both the employees and the SAPS in eradicating workplace violence and preventing underlying issues that might impair the job performance of employees. Copyright