Authoritarians may be more likely to engage in retaliation

On Behalf of | Jun 10, 2016 | Employer Retaliation |

If you should ever have to file some form of grievance against someone with whom you work, you are protected by law against employer retaliation. A good employer knows that no benefit will come from acting in a retaliatory manner against an employee who felt it was his or her duty or was otherwise compelled to issue a complaint. Unfortunately, not all employers are able to keep their emotions in check and as a result, they act on impulses rather than reason.

Why do some bosses or supervisors engage in retaliation while others do not? Well, according to information on the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s website, there are certain psychological traits that retaliating persons tend to demonstrate.

For instance, research indicates that individuals who have authoritarian personalities may be particularly offended when they feel that subordinates are questioning their actions or making accusations. This is because authoritarians are very conscious about their status within group settings. As such, authoritarians may be more inclined toward retaliatory behaviors.

Further, authoritarianism could manifest itself throughout an organization’s culture. In such an environment, any employee who “steps out of line” could be subjected not just to retaliation, but perhaps even ostracization by his or her peers.

Employer retaliation can manifest itself in many forms, including demotion or even wrongful termination. In short, your career and future opportunities could be badly harmed simply because someone in a higher position does not like or is threatened by a complaint that you had every right to lodge.

If you are enduring stress and fearing potential career damage owing to the retaliatory actions of your employer, you do not have to face the situation alone. An Indiana attorney who has experience representing employees whose rights have been violated could offer you advice, guidance, and representation. The attorney could work to help resolve your dispute, either through litigation or in the courtroom.

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