• Also known as micro-aggressions, anti-social behaviour, horizontal hostility.
• Is a low-intensity, deviant act that violates workplace norms or respectful interactions with an ambiguous intent to harm.
• Is one of the most pervasive forms of antisocial behaviour, but its subtlety makes it difficult to detect.
• Can lead others to adopt similar behaviours over time, creating a downward spiral that can result in a toxic workplace.
• Is more likely to be passive, indirect, and verbal in nature.
• Doesn’t rise to the same level as bullying or harassment which is prohibited in the workplace by law.

• Is characterized by an escalating, hostile relationship
• Is frequent (e.g., occurs 1-2 times per week) and persistent (e.g., occurs over a minimum 6-month period)
• Is openly hostile and negative
• Is more likely to be active, direct, and physical in nature

The consequences of workplace incivility are far-reaching, impacting both the individual and the organization.

They include:

• Decreased job satisfaction
• Decreased organizational commitment and engagement
• Decreased co-worker support and collaboration
• Decreased engagement with work
• Increased burnout
• Increased illness-related absence and intent to leave (the organization and the health care sector)