Targeted negative treatment by a supervisor toward a subordinate can stem from various factors, ranging from the supervisor’s personal biases and management style to the employee’s performance and workplace dynamics. For example, a manager might unconsciously favor employees who share similar characteristics, leading to unfair criticism or overlooking the contributions of others. Conversely, perceived poor performance, frequent disagreements, or an employee’s personality might trigger a supervisor’s negative reactions.
Understanding the underlying reasons behind this complex issue is crucial for fostering a healthy and productive work environment. It allows organizations to address the root causes of conflict, improve manager-employee relationships, and boost overall morale. Historically, power imbalances within hierarchical structures have contributed to such behaviors. Modern workplaces, however, increasingly emphasize respectful communication and fair treatment, making it imperative to analyze and mitigate these dynamics.
