Workplace incivility, characterized by subtle yet pervasive disrespectful behaviours, has significant psychological ramifications, affecting employee well-being and organisational productivity. Grounded in Work and Organizational Psychology, this empirical study examines the impact of workplace incivility across three management levels within Indian Railways, the largest public-sector employer in India. Drawing on Professional Psychology principles, the study explores how uncivil behaviors influence stress, job satisfaction, and mental health, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).
Using a mixed-methods approach, data was collected from employees at junior, middle, and senior management levels, assessing exposure to incivility and its psychological consequences. The study employed a mixed-method approach integrating quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data (N=104) was gathered using standardized psychological instruments. The qualitative component included 24 in-depth interviews stratified across stations and management levels. Data was analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis to uncover nuanced narratives of incivility, power asymmetries. NVivo software supported coding and pattern generation, allowing triangulation with quantitative findings. Emerging themes included "hierarchical silencing" and "emotional erosion."
Findings reveal that workplace incivility exacerbates stress, reduces engagement, and undermines professional efficacy, with varying impacts across hierarchical levels. The study underscores the need for organizational interventions to foster civil workplaces, promoting mental health (SDG 3), enhancing productivity (SDG 8), and ensuring equitable work environments (SDG 16).
This research contributes to Work and Organizational Psychology by highlighting the role of civility in employee well-being and organizational success. It also advances Professional Psychology by advocating for evidence-based policies to mitigate incivility in large public-sector institutions.