Researchers at the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health in Japan categorised aggressive words and phrases into different types, including criticizing job performance, attacking personality and looks, and threatening life.
Examples of abusive words and phrases reported by workers included 'Lose weight, fatty,' 'Are you mute or deaf?,' 'Die you son of a bitch,' and 'I hope you quit.'
Victims most frequently reported their supervisors were the perpetrators.
Criticizing job performance and attacking personality or looks were common forms of abuse.
Victims exposed to threats on life were more likely to experience depressive symptoms, while those facing job performance abuse were more likely to have sleep issues.
The study highlights the importance of prevention and suggests promoting psychological detachment from work could improve workers' mental health.
The research also indicates supervisors may need targeted training, to assist them perform their roles without injuring workers, with greater supervision to create healthier work environments.
Source: OHS Alert, 20 February Access the full study here