Incivility in the Informal Workplace: A Case Study of Emerald Lutheran Church
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Abstract
This study examined how incivility is expressed in an informal church organization and the impact relationships among those in the organization have on incivility. The researcher had staff members of the church complete journals. The researcher also observed the staff for one week and then conducted interviews based on the observations and journals. The researcher then coded data and grouped it into overarching themes. Themes that emerged about displays of incivility included: interrupting or not respecting another's ideas and yelling and gossiping behind each other's backs. The researcher examined these themes in terms of the relationships that exist among these coworkers. Results demonstrated that the staff did not frequently escalate incivility because they valued relationships and were aware of external causes of uncivil behavior. Reasons for not escalating incivility were then explored and connected to existing incivility research. Finally, suggestions for further study and practical applications are offered.