what is horizontal violence

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10-10-2024

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Understanding Horizontal Violence: When Peers Become Perpetrators

Horizontal violence, also known as lateral violence or workplace bullying, is a pervasive issue that can have devastating consequences on individuals and organizations. It's a form of aggression that occurs between individuals at the same hierarchical level, often within the same profession or workplace.

But what exactly is horizontal violence? And how can we identify and address this harmful behavior?

Unpacking the Concept

A 2019 article on Academia.edu by Dr. Patricia A. D'Onofrio, titled "Workplace Bullying: A Multifaceted Perspective," defines horizontal violence as:

"Any act of aggression, hostility, or abuse directed toward a coworker, regardless of its intensity or frequency, that is intended to intimidate, degrade, or control."

This definition highlights the key aspects of horizontal violence:

• Intentionality: The behavior is deliberate, not accidental or a result of misunderstanding.
• Power Dynamics: While individuals may be at the same hierarchical level, subtle power dynamics often exist, giving one person an advantage over another.
• Impact: The behavior aims to cause harm, whether emotional, psychological, or professional.

Common Forms of Horizontal Violence:

Horizontal violence manifests in various ways, from subtle passive-aggressive behaviors to overt acts of hostility. Some common examples include:

• Gossip and rumors: Spreading false or malicious information to undermine someone's reputation.
• Sabotage: Intentionally hindering someone's work or preventing them from succeeding.
• Exclusion and isolation: Deliberately excluding someone from meetings, social events, or important information.
• Verbal abuse: Using insults, threats, or belittling language.
• Nonverbal aggression: Using body language to intimidate, such as staring, rolling eyes, or sighing.

The Cost of Horizontal Violence

The impact of horizontal violence can be significant, both for individuals and organizations:

• Individual impact: Victims may experience stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and even burnout.
• Organizational impact: Increased absenteeism, decreased productivity, and a negative work environment.

Addressing Horizontal Violence:

Tackling horizontal violence requires a multifaceted approach, focusing on prevention, intervention, and support:

• Prevention: Organizations should create a culture of respect, open communication, and clear policies against bullying.
• Intervention: When incidents occur, immediate action must be taken. This may involve mediation, conflict resolution, or disciplinary measures.
• Support: Victims need access to support services, including counseling and legal assistance.

Taking Action

If you are experiencing horizontal violence, remember that you are not alone. Reach out to a trusted colleague, supervisor, or human resources department.

Moving Forward

Understanding and addressing horizontal violence is crucial for creating a safe and positive work environment. By promoting respect, open communication, and holding perpetrators accountable, we can foster a culture where everyone feels valued and supported.