Behavioral deviation at work: see 5 examples

• 
  
  
  

The issue of behavioral deviation at work has become increasingly present in discussions about people management. After all, understanding this phenomenon is essential to maintaining a healthy and productive work environment. But what exactly is behavioral deviation at work and how can we identify it?

In this article, we will clarify what behavioral deviation at work is, its main causes and show you practical examples. So, if you are a team leader, an HR manager or even an employee who wants to better understand this concept, this article is for you. Find out more below!

What is behavioral deviation at work?

Behavioral deviation at work is a concept that refers to actions or attitudes that go against the norms or expectations established by the company.

These actions can range from neglect of responsibilities to unethical conduct. The important thing here is to understand that behavioral deviation at work is a manifestation of deeper problems.

Each company may have its own norms and acceptable behaviors, so what is considered a deviation may vary.

For this reason, it is essential that each company clearly establishes which behaviors are acceptable and which are not. Additionally, the organization must create a safe and inclusive environment where employees can express their concerns without fear of retaliation.

Common causes of behavioral deviation at work

There are several reasons why an employee may exhibit behavioral deviance at work. Stress, job dissatisfaction, personal problems or a toxic work environment may be some of them.

Stress, for example, can lead to behaviors such as neglect or even aggression. Job dissatisfaction, in turn, can lead to below-expected performance or disruptive behaviors.

But in addition to individual factors, the organization’s culture also plays an important role. Ineffective leadership or a work culture that does not value its employees can also lead to behavioral deviance.

5 examples of behavioral deviations at work

Understanding behavioral deviation at work requires familiarity with this type of attitude. Here are some common examples you might encounter in the workplace:

1 – Neglect of responsibilities

Neglecting responsibilities is a common example of behavioral deviation. This usually involves an employee not completing their tasks as expected.

For example, a sales team member who consistently misses targets or ignores potential customers could be considered negligent. Likewise, an employee who frequently arrives late or misses important deadlines is showing deviant behavior.

These actions can harm not only individual productivity but also the overall effectiveness of the team.

2 – Disregard for company policies

Company policies are created to ensure a safe, efficient and ethical work environment. However, some employees may ignore these policies, which is considered behavioral misconduct.

For example, an employee who ignores workplace safety regulations or uses company resources for personal purposes is showing disrespect for company policies.

Likewise, an employee who violates the company’s code of conduct or does not respect privacy and confidentiality policies is exhibiting deviant behavior.

3 – Unethical behavior

Unethical behavior is perhaps one of the most serious behavioral deviations at work. It can range from falsifying expense reports to manipulating sales results or stealing company property, for example.

Additionally, unethical behavior may include actions that harm the company’s integrity and reputation, such as disclosing confidential information or engaging in dishonest business dealings.

4 – Disruptive behavior

Disruptive behavior is another type of behavioral deviation that can seriously harm the work environment.

This may include creating unnecessary conflicts with co-workers, spreading gossip or rumors, or sabotaging other people’s work.

For example, an employee who consistently interrupts meetings with unrelated comments or talks about coworkers in a negative way is demonstrating disruptive behavior.

5 – Harassment or bullying

Workplace harassment or bullying is an extreme example of behavioral deviance. This type of deviant behavior may include using offensive language, degrading jokes or comments, or intimidating co-workers.

An example of this might be a manager who constantly criticizes a team member for no reason or a co-worker who makes inappropriate comments about another employee’s appearance.

It is important to remember that these are just examples of behavioral deviations at work. The reality is that any behavior that violates company rules or policies or that creates an unhealthy work environment can be considered deviant.

Remember, the key to dealing with behavioral misconduct at work is prevention and communication. By creating a healthy work environment and communicating openly and honestly with your team, you can help prevent behavioral deviance and promote a respectful environment.