Understanding and Managing Psychopathy in the Workplace
So let's talk about Psychopathy in the workplace. I think this is an interesting topic to talk about because hopefully for most people this isn't something that's really common for you, but unfortunately, sometimes this does happen whether it's with a boss or a co worker or someone.
So let's start with defining what psychopathy is. It's traits such as lack of empathy, being manipulative, and having superficial charm. And when this happens in a professional setting, it's going to of course lead to a really toxic work environment.
So Getting a little bit more specific about what these behaviors look like in the workplace. So manipulation, we all know what that is, but using charm or deceit to gain power or influence is really the best way to describe that. And, often we don't know when we're being manipulated. And then sometimes later we might be talking to somebody and then they're ooh, that feels a little manipulative. And it's oh, my God, that's so obvious.
And then exploitation. So this often takes place in the workplace when someone's taking credit for somebody else's work, or they're deflecting responsibility placing blame somewhere else, when they shouldn't be.
Another behavior is bullying and intimidation. This one can be a little bit more obvious. And as you can imagine, it creates fear in the workplace and it's just a way for somebody to maintain control.
And then lastly someone that has some psychopathy, they're often rule breaking and will take a lot of risks. And often this rule breaking can be really reckless. It's unethical. And they're doing it without the thought of concern or consequences, or sometimes they don't have consequences for what happens if they're that skilled.
Signs of a Psychopathic Leader or Colleague
So signs of a psychopathic leader or colleague. Again, like this disregard for other people's feelings and well being. You'll see a lot of lying or twisting the truth. There's often this pattern of sabotaging others, and usually it's to, advance their own position. And then sometimes you'll see like this splitting behavior, so creating division among team members. And it's a way to maintain control.
The impact on a workplace when all of this happens with team dynamics, as you can imagine, it's going to lower everybody's morale, it's going to make collaboration really difficult, and it's going to decrease trust among your colleagues.
Usually it increases anxiety. It obviously then, of course, increases stress, sometimes depression and then often that leads to burnout. And in a bigger scheme, bigger context it can lead to a higher turnover rate and then just overall less productivity.
How to Handle Psychopathy in the Workplace
Now the best part, how do we handle this in the workplace? So start by documenting these incidents. So that's a detailed record of what has been going on. So that means the date, other people that are in the room, and you're going to write out very specifically what somebody said. So their manipulative or abusive behavior. So both behavior and what somebody said.
Next, you would want to set very clear boundaries. So establishing your limits and enforce them consistently. Consistency is the key. You're going to want to stay professional. So just because someone's essentially misbehaving or being very difficult that doesn't mean it gives you a green light to do the same. So you're going to avoid emotional reactions and do your best to stay calm.
Another alternative or addition to all of this would be to seek support. So talking to HR, mentors or trusted colleagues. If it's not your boss, that's being a difficult one, then talking to your boss or management.
And lastly, I think a very important one is environment is incredibly toxic and you are noticing your mental health and physical health decline, know when to exit, know when it is not worth it.
In conclusion with all of this, you really want to try to protect yourself and your individual well being when you notice that somebody has these psychopathic traits. Do the five things that I mentioned and really take care of yourself and do your best to create a supportive work environment.
If you're noticing that it feels too much out of your control and there's not much you can do and the stress is overwhelming anxiety is overwhelming, that might be a time to reach out to a therapist. All of our therapists that they're being are well adept in workplace stress. That's one of I would say one of the top things that people come in for. Sometimes we just need that outside support and that's okay. We need a sounding board and we'd be able to process everything going on.
Feel free to reach out.