Abuse of Power in the Workplace: The Invisible Wounds of Harassment
Understand how moral harassment affects both the victim and the aggressor, and how to deal with its consequences.
In this special segment of Donas da Voz, expert Andreza Thans delves into the profound impact of abuse of power and moral harassment in the workplace. Discover how this dynamic affects victims psychologically and neurochemically. She also explores the potential origins of oppressive behavior.
In this special segment of Donas da Voz, expert Andreza Thans deeply explores a delicate and persistent topic: abuse of power and moral harassment in the workplace. She reveals how this toxic dynamic impacts both the victim and the aggressor, leaving profound and often invisible scars.
The Invisible Scars of Workplace Harassment
Andreza Thans, with her expertise, explains that moral harassment is a common and devastating reality. The victim of an abusive boss — who, according to her, is not a leader but someone who wields power inappropriately — becomes emotionally shattered. Self-esteem is severely diminished, and the limbic system, responsible for emotions, is activated by fear. The feeling of being cornered is constant, and often, the financial necessity of keeping the job prevents the victim from reacting, leaving them unsure of what to do in the situation. It's the harsh reality that "life costs."
Understanding the Aggressor's Mind
It's fascinating (and concerning) to note how Andreza also addresses the aggressor's profile. For her, these oppressive bosses often have a 'messed up' brain neurochemistry. This can result from a past marked by hostile and authoritarian figures, such as a father. They reproduce the pattern they know, believing that aggression and abuse of power are the only ways to achieve their goals, even if these goals don't align with the scope of the work.
Understanding this dynamic is the first step toward seeking solutions. Donas da Voz invites us to reflect on these situations, offering a space for women to find support and tools to overcome challenges like moral harassment, building a future where respect and empowerment prevail. You are not alone on this journey.