Workplace Violence Inventory

More than 2 million people each year become victims of violent crime at work, according to the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics. Research on workplace violence reveals that as many as two-thirds of these violent acts might have been prevented had co-workers or management been trained to recognize behavioral signs and act promptly.

Anyone can have a bad day—or a bad week for that matter. Personal problems can and do affect job performance. But a pattern of behavior is cause for concern.

Although there is no single predictor of workplace violence, certain personal characteristics, behavioral signs and health issues have been associated with violence on the job. If you are concerned about an employee, review the lists below and check any of the items that apply.

Personal characteristics

People who have committed acts of violence at work often display a pattern of personal characteristics. The following “profile” can help you understand general traits and assess potential risk. Items eight and nine are particularly strong risk factors and should be given appropriate attention.

• Self-esteem seems highly connected to his job.
• Has few interests outside of work.
• Tends to be a loner.
• Continually blames others or makes excuses for any shortcomings on the job.
• Is overly concerned that he will be laid off.
• Has a rigid, negative attitude, especially toward authority.
• Holds very strong opinions and tries to recruit others for his causes.
• Has a history of making threats or subtle threatening actions or innuendos.
• Has a history of violent behavior.
• Is fascinated with violence or weapons.

Behavioral signs

People who commit workplace violence often have observable behavioral symptoms and performance deficits. These symptoms also are commonly observed among people who are overly stressed, abuse substances, and/or suffer from depression or other mood disorders. Any of these problems can increase the likelihood of violence. Because these behaviors are measurable, you can document performance deficits and refer the troubled employee to the employee assistance program (EAP) for further assessment.

• Strained or poor relations with co-workers.
• Unusual or dramatic change of behavior, mood or attitude.
• Excessive demands for supervisor’s time and attention.
• Decreased productivity.
• Inconsistent work patterns.
• Reduced work efficiency.
• Attendance problems.
• Safety concerns—takes unnecessary risks at work.

Health status

Problems at work are more strongly associated with health complaints than any other life stressor—more so than even financial problems or family problems, according to St. Paul Fire and Marine Insurance Co.

A person’s physical and/or mental health status can significantly impair performance, judgment and relationships, and can precede workplace violence. You might notice the following in an individual:

• Increased evidence of personal stress.
• Problems with concentration or signs of confusion.
• Poor or decreased health and personal hygiene.
• History of mental illness or current psychological distress.
• Persistent depressive mood.
• History or current evidence of substance abuse.

Next steps

How each of us deals with stress, authority, rules and pressure is the result of countless factors. Unfortunately, there is no magic formula that tells us when a worker is about to go over the edge. Workplace violence is the result of a combination of many factors.

Recognizing the signs of workplace violence will enable you to respond in a timely and appropriate manner to protect the workforce and help the troubled employee before an incident occurs. If you have concerns about a specific employee or situation, talk with an EAP professional.

By Drew W. Edwards, MS
© 2000 Lifescape