Identify behavioral and physical signs
Adapted from: Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety. Violence in the workplace warning signs. 2014.
Behavioral Signs
- Crying, sulking, outbursts
- Frequent lateness or absenteeism
- Poor work quality, denial or work performance problems
- Belief that he or she is always correct
- Poor handling of criticism
- Blaming others for errors
- Testing limits
- Use of curses and/or other inappropriate communication
- Difficulty with concentration and recall
- Social isolation, complaints of unfair treatment
- Hyperfocus on problems, without resolving them
Physical Signs
- Flushing, pallor, sweating
- Tired appearance
- Clenched muscles (e.g., fists)
- Making violent gestures
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Scowling, sneering, glaring
- Avoidance of eye contact
- Restless or repetitive movements (e.g., pacing)
- Shaking, trembling
- Vocal changes
- Chanting or speaking loudly
- Invading the personal space of others
Resources
- Violence and Harassment in the Workplace - Warning Signs: OSH Answers. Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety. https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/psychosocial/violence_warning_signs.html. Published December 16, 2022. Accessed February 7, 2023