Abstract:
While physical violence has been recognised as a health risk for workers some time, the existence and health impact of psychological violence is emerging as a priority concern in the workplace. Although rates of non-fatal injury have fallen in Ireland in recent years, incidents triggered by violence and aggression featured more prominently in 2009, accounting for 3% of incidents, compared to less than 1% in previous years (HSA, 2010). Stress, compromised psychological well-being and post-traumatic stress have been reported as negative outcomes of violence in work, although research evidence on the topic is limited.