Discussion
Lateral violence is intra-racial violence that is characterized by bullying, gossiping, social exclusion, emotional abuse, or even physical abuse (Lateral, 2012). The historical realities of the Indigenous population are contributing factors to the lateral violence exhibited by these peoples. This is because the colonization and oppressive laws subjected to the Indigenous population led to an experience of powerlessness and over time, these feelings became internalized and led to lateral violence. Lateral violence has a negative impact on the entire society. In the workplace, it results in stress and tension that decreases the productivity of the people involved (Stanley & Martin, 2007). Ceravolo (2012) reveals that lateral violence increases employee turnover therefore raising the cost of running a business.Lateral violence is damaging to the individuals sense of self-worth and it therefore leads to self-doubt and anger at perceived incompetence (Roberts, 2000).
Reducing lateral violence in my work setting will be since lateral violence decreases efficiency and increases stress in the workplace. Patient care is negatively affected by the presence of lateral violence. One way of reducing lateral violence would be by reporting incidents of lateral violence to the relevant superiors. Stanley and Martin (2007) note that reporting perpetrators of lateral violence will result in a work culture of respect and accountability. Another way of preventing lateral violence is by sensitizing other members in my workplace on the issue. Research by Stanley and Martin (2007) noted that most nurses were unaware of lateral violence behaviours perpetrated by them.
Comment
G highlights the negative impact that lateral violence can have on an individual’s personal wellbeing and emotions. This is a valid point especially in the context of the aboriginal people.
References
Ceravolo. D. (2012). Strengthening communication to overcome lateral violence. Journal of Nursing Management, 20(5), 599-606.
Lateral Violence – Part 3. (2012, February 13). National Stolen Generations Alliance.
Roberts, S. J. (2000). Development of a positive professional identity: Liberating oneself from the oppressor within. Advances in Nursing Science, 22(4), 71–82.
Stanley, K., & Martin, M. (2007). Examining lateral violence in the nursing workforce. Issues in Mental Health Nursing, 28 (1), 1247–1265.