Chapter four explored many issues with the organization’s complaint system, including concerns for repercussions. Because fear of speaking up was such a prevalent theme, it is included here as a separate chapter.
The fears expressed by many employees reflected a lack of psychological safety. Amy Edmondson, from Harvard University, defines psychological safety as the belief that people will not be punished or humiliated for speaking up.
While the theme of this story was workplace harassment, the fear of speaking up was not limited to this issue. Meaning that a lack of psychological safety was seemingly much more pervasive.
Prior research shows that psychologically unsafe workplaces lead to reduced psychological well-being, job disengagement, higher numbers of employee departures, and greater instances of bullying and harassment.
To explore this chapter in the story, click on the links below. Resources for creating a psychologically safe workplace are presented in the final chapter.
It is my view that the organization does not....
It is my view that the organization does not have an environment that a member can feel comfortable bring concerns forward. The culture of the organization is to say nothing whether the subject is ethical, morale or criminal wrongdoing. The “whistle blower” has to be fearful of persecution as a result of coming forward with their concerns. Retribution or punitive measures against the “whistle blower” are legitimate concerns, as management and colleagues see the person as a “rat”. Resentment by co-workers makes for a very unhealthy work environment.
Members are not held accountable for....
Members are not held accountable for wrongdoing and there is not a safe place to turn for help if you feel you are being harassed. If you say anything the harassment gets worse.
I have been the victim of harassment at....
I have been the victim of harassment at the hands of previous Management at my present Unit. I, unfortunately, did not formally pursue a complaint at that time due to fear of reprisal especially, that of a negative impact on my career.
There have been a couple of situations....
There have been a couple of situations where I have been discriminated against and harassed. Reporting these incidents was not worth the repercussions or the “whiner” reputation as these types of issues are not isolated.