Workplace Bullying and Incivility in Physical Therapist Education Programs

Abstract

Introduction. Workplace bullying and incivility have been recognized as significant problems in both clinical and academic environments. These negative behaviors can lead to disengagement, stress, and lost productivity. The purposes of this study were to 1) identify predictors of bullying experiences and 2) assess the prevalence of being bullied among faculty and staff working in physical therapist education programs across the United States. Review of Literature. More than one-third of US workers are bullied or have witnessed bullying in the workplace. When these disruptive behaviors occur within the context of physical therapist education, the impact can be detrimental to teaching and learning, clinical practice, and individual well-being. Subjects. Participants included 529 Doctor of Physical Therapy faculty and staff. Methods. Respondents completed the uncivil workplace behavior questionnaire—revised and negative acts questionnaire—revised. Results. Survey results revealed that 32.5% of academic faculty had experienced bullying within the last 6 months. Discussion and Conclusion. The prevalence of bullying and incivility in academic physical therapy programs approaches that of the general workforce in the United States. Physical Therapy education programs must take an active role in preventing, recognizing, and managing uncivil behaviors in the academic environment.