Incivility in the Workplace, a Hidden and Common Challenge in the Work: A Narrative Review Study

Abstract

Introduction: Researching and examining employee behaviors in the workplace carries significant importance. Although the job description for employees outlines the expected work behaviors, it is normal for them to demonstrate additional behaviors and activities at work. The theoretical literature regarding this subject has been examined, emphasizing the significance of these behaviors and their influence on the organization. Consequently, this study was carried out to investigate the different aspect of incivility in workplace and the related difficulties.

 Materials and Methods: This narrative review examined the results of worldwide studies carried out on different facets of workplace incivility. Publications from 2000 to2023 were examined utilizing the Scopus, Web of Science, and SID databases. The research employed keywords like incivility, deviant acts, and organizational behavior.

Results: The research showed that rudeness is common in workplace, requiring significant focus. In contrast to other types of deviance like interactional injustice, interpersonal deviance, aggression, and bullying, workplace incivility is distinct. Impoliteness is characterized by minimal intensity, unclear intent of the offender, and breaches of social norm. Research showed that rudeness originates from coworkers, managers, and customers or clients. The findings further indicated that employee incivility negatively affects work performance, resulting in increased emotional fatigue and a higher probability of employees wishing to resign.  

Conclusion: Due to its negative effect on interpersonal communication, human resource management needs to tackle this problem. Interventions can successfully diminish such actions. Organizations should set explicit expectations and norms for interpersonal interactions in the workplace to reduce misunderstandings and hidden conflicts.