Are We Overusing the Term "Toxic Workplace"?

The term "toxic workplace" has become increasingly common in recent years, used to describe any workplace that is perceived as negative, stressful, or unhealthy. However, some experts are questioning whether the term is being overused, and whether it is actually doing more harm than good.

The perception we have of work plays a vital role in our productivity and overall well-being. Numerous studies in organizational psychology have consistently demonstrated the profound influence of our attitudes and beliefs about work on our performance.

‘The designation of an individual as ‘toxic’ possesses the potential to instill feelings of shame and self-deprecation. Over time, such labels have the propensity to become internalized, particularly when dealing with a term as emotionally charged as ‘toxic.’ Those who already grapple with diminished self-esteem or fragile self-worth are particularly susceptible to adverse effects when characterized as such,” says Dr. Robert Chandler, DClinPsyc (UK) Clinical Psychologist, Director, Corporate and Workplace Services at Lighthouse Arabia.?

Seeing work as toxic or burdensome can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy, where this perception contributes to reduced satisfaction, engagement, and productivity.

Yet the term “toxic work” has gained popularity through the years.

The word ‘toxic’ derives from the Latin ‘poison,’ says Dr. Chandler.?

“Over recent years, the word has been the subject of ‘concept creep’, in that the original definition of the word is used more often, in more contexts, with changing parameters of the word’s meaning. Although concept creep is neither inherently a good or bad thing, the increase in the use of the word has several negative outcomes,” he says.?

Firstly, it is a categorical word (something is either toxic or non-toxic), and its use fails to consider the nuances of people, relationships or work environments, he adds.?

In addition, overuse of the word creates a sense of “powerlessness in the individual.” Upon using this term, people think, ‘I am at the mercy of the other and therefore lack agency,’ explains Dr. Chandler.?

“What likely follows is an individual who feels stuck, disempowered, and lacks control over their relationships or workplace culture,” he says.?

TOXICITY IS SUBJECTIVE

According to Dr. Chandler, the term may gradually lose its impact and significance due to concept creep. “I have consulted with patients who have been described as “toxic” by their partners or colleagues, and some of them appear unperturbed by the characterization, largely because of the term’s overuse and subsequent dilution of its meaning,” he says.?

MISUSE OF THE TERM?

Dr. Chandler explains that cognitive distortions are exaggerated assumptions that are often not fact-based. “At times of stress, our thinking narrows, and we can overgeneralize, jump to conclusions, or come to see a complex situation or event in a way that fits our pre-existing beliefs,” he adds.?

Dr. Chandler highlights that continually labeling people or situations as toxic hampers open-mindedness and the capacity to view a situation from diverse perspectives.

“Once we label a work environment as ‘toxic,’ our minds unconsciously search for more data points supporting that narrative. As the narrative strengthens, this leads us to enter situations, meetings, or events with an already defined outcome in our minds of how that situation will play out, which is highly problematic,” adds Dr. Chandler.?

DESPONDENCY, CYNICISM AND BURNOUT

“When a person or environment is characterized as ‘toxic,’ it often results in the accuser absolving themselves of agency and responsibility by saying, ‘The issue lies with the culture, and I have no role in this,’” says Dr. Chandler.?

“Relationships and workplace cultures are intricate and nuanced, with each individual within the system or relationship making some contribution. This isn’t to deny the existence of genuinely challenging workplace environments but rather to emphasize that everyone should reflect on their contribution to the situation or relationship,” says Dr. Chandler.?

Moreover, altering cognitive distortions can have long-term benefits.?

Dr. Chandler adds, “People who constantly blame the organization or others in a relationship are likely to feel cynical and despondent.” He adds, “This may also contribute to the onset of burnout and mental health difficulties.”?

The collective evidence indicates that our perceptions of work profoundly impact our productivity. When individuals view work as toxic or burdensome, it can create a self-reinforcing cycle that affects motivation, mental well-being, and productivity. This negative perspective can result in reduced job satisfaction, increased stress, and diminished performance.

Recognizing the influence of our perceptions on work is crucial. It’s not only the nature of the job but also our mindset and attitudes that play a significant role in shaping our productivity and well-being.

Dr. Robert Chandler,? Director of Corporate and Workplace Services and Clinical Psychologist at The LightHouse Arabia

Fast Company, Middle East

November 2023