Detoxifying workplaces ethically and humanely – Introduction module

As health professionals, it is not only incumbent on us to be role models of ethical behaviour and safeguard human rights, but to also to help our clients build ethical and humane workplaces. This is after all where most working adults spend the bulk of their productive time. To enable positive outcomes, we need to upskill health care professionals in diagnosis and prognosis of toxic workplaces.

Toxic behaviour is defined as behaviour that is harmful to an organization, including either its property, reputation, or people. Toxic by its very nature implies that this behaviour is both contagious and bad for others. Prof Dylan’s Minors team showed that if someone is influenced by toxic colleagues, that person is then 50% more likely to become toxic, too. One Cornerstone On Demand report found that good employees were 54 % more likely to leave when forced to deal with a toxic co-worker.

So, if it is so damaging, why is it so often ignored? Firstly, because of ambiguity: people are not sure if it’s an issue, what constitutes toxicity, or who should address it. Secondly, because of the threat potential: implications for you and the person if you speak up. Silence becomes tacit approval, which becomes a slippery slope where more negative toxic behaviour becomes the norm. So, whilst the need to address toxicity is readily apparent, the ethical and human rights underpinnings need to be understood and managed in their complexity.

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW – TOTAL OF 15 ETHICS POINTS | R500 PER WORKSHOP | 6HOURS 20MINS PER WORKSHOP

Delegates need to attend each module sequentially to qualify to move to next module. These online workshops will be delivered through a blend of lectures, discussions, case studies, and interactive sessions. Participants will be encouraged to contribute actively, fostering a rich, collaborative learning environment.

Workshop 1: objectives for Introduction module (Individual focus – 5 ethics CPD points)

Define toxic behaviour, its types, and the key elements of a toxic workplace.

Understand the impact of toxic workplaces on individuals and organizations.

Apply ethical principles. human rights and psychological frameworks to identify and address common toxic behaviours in the workplace.

Understand the South African context and HPCSA guidelines relating to ethical workplace behaviour.

Implement strategies to foster more diverse, equity, inclusive work environments.