Outline:
The Impact of Bad Bosses on Employee Well-Being
It might seem like a humorous idea, but the notion that bad bosses should come with warning labels is not as far-fetched as it sounds. A label on their forehead could read: "Warning: This person could have an impact on the psychological and perhaps the physical well-being of his or her subordinates." While this may sound exaggerated, research has shown that the behavior of a supervisor can significantly affect the mental and even physical health of employees.
Brad Gilbreath, an assistant professor of Organizational Leadership and Supervision at Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne, has been studying this phenomenon. His recent research highlights how a supervisor’s actions can be a key factor in determining an employee’s psychological well-being. In fact, the negative influence of a poor boss can be more detrimental than other stress-inducing factors.
"A boss is either a source of stress or can diminish it," said Gilbreath. This statement reflects a common-sense understanding: most people spend a significant portion of their waking hours at work, and the person who controls so much of their life can greatly influence their happiness and satisfaction.
However, despite this obvious connection, many businesses tend to overlook the behavior of their supervisors. Instead, they focus on immediate concerns such as productivity, competition, legal threats, and financial performance. There are numerous programs and seminars available that address topics like time management or sexual harassment, but few focus on teaching bosses how to balance consideration and positive traits with the demands of productivity.
In a results-driven society, companies often prioritize output over employee satisfaction. Yet, researchers like Gilbreath and others, particularly in Europe, argue that there are measurable impacts on organizations that adopt this mindset.
Workplace issues have been linked to various health problems, including absenteeism, hypertension, depression, burnout, cardiovascular disease, and presenteeism—when employees struggle to concentrate or participate fully due to workplace stress. While some level of stress is normal and even beneficial, excessive stress can lead to harmful behaviors such as increased alcohol consumption, smoking, and taking work-related problems home.
"One insurance person told me that Prozac prescriptions were one of their highest drug costs," Gilbreath noted, referring to the popular antidepressant made by Eli Lilly. He emphasized that psychological health can directly affect physical health, and with rising healthcare costs, addressing these issues is essential.
According to Gilbreath’s studies, bad bosses typically exhibit certain behaviors, such as ignoring employee suggestions, being guarded, excluding some employees from communication, remaining distant, and creating confusion by failing to provide necessary information. On the other hand, good bosses are usually considerate, plan and balance workloads effectively, handle complaints well, and try to understand employees’ perspectives.
Gilbreath, who began his career in human resources before transitioning to academia, suggests that company leaders should model proper managerial conduct. Many individuals in positions of authority simply mimic the behavior of those above them or learn through trial and error.
He also recommends using 360-degree reviews, which include feedback from peers and subordinates, as a tool to monitor and improve the behavior of bosses. "Teaching people to deep breathe isn’t addressing the underlying issues," he said. "Bringing in a magician once a year to loosen things up won’t help the situation."
Instead, companies should recognize the real threat posed by bad bosses and take steps to address it. By focusing on creating a healthier work environment, organizations can potentially reduce the negative impacts on both employees and the business itself.