Developing behavioural observation scales to effectively help employees reduce interpersonal mistreatment in the workplace

Abstract

This study explored the development of behavioural observation scales (BOS) based on the critical incidents of interpersonal interactions in the workplace. In particular, this study used a literature review and survey data (n=313) to gather 1126 critical incidents that detailed effective and ineffective behaviours related to interpersonal interactions between coworkers and interactions between managers and subordinates in the workplace. Then, using a coding process adapted from both the works of Brown and Hanlon (2004) and Latham and Wexley (1981), behavioural items were compiled to develop two separate BOS; one for interactions between coworkers and the other focusing on managerial and subordinate interactions. This study also provides insight on how these two BOS may benefit an organization and their employees and sets the landscape for a future study that will use these BOS to formulate goal setting interventions aimed at reducing the prevalence of workplace mistreatment.