NBU approves study of 'cyber aggression in the workplace'

Union interested in 'understanding and meeting' challenges faced by members

Fredericton (25 July 2007) - The New Brunswick Union of Public and Private Employees (NBU/NUPGE) is encouraging members to participate in a study of "cyber aggression in the workplace."

Union president Debbie Lacelle says members can participate by visiting a link at the union's website and filling out a questionnaire that takes approximately 15-20 minutes to complete.

“It is part of the union’s ongoing commitment to understanding and meeting the various challenges faced by our members in their workplaces,” Lacelle says.

The study is being carried out by Terrance G. Weatherbee of the department of management at Saint Mary’s University in Halifax. The anonymity of all participants is protected.

"Cyber aggression is the sending or receipt of a hostile or aggressive e-mail," Weatherbee says. "The survey will ask questions about your work environments, how you feel about work, and your experiences with email in the workplace."

Several of the questions ask whether employees have received e-mail from supervisors, co-workers, subordinates or others that has been impolite or uncivil, disrespectful, discourteous, personally insulting, unfairly questioning their professionalism or competence, or that has been hostile or aggressive.

They are also asked how such e-mail has made them feel - i.e. furious, angry, frightened, anxious, disgusted, depressed, discouraged, gloomy, fatigued or bored. Additional questions delve into the longer-term effects and other aspects of cyber aggression in the workplace. NUPGE

More information:
Cyber aggression in the workplace