Title: Needs theories and contemporary research: can unmet needs contribute to victimisation in the workplace?

Authors: Jillian Williamson Yarbrough; Leslie Ramos Salazar

Addresses: West Texas A&M University, WTAMU Box 60768, Canyon, Texas, 79016, USA ' West Texas A&M University, WTAMU Box 60768, Canyon, Texas, 79016, USA

Abstract: The following paper seeks to uncover potential support for workplace victimisation through an examination of employees' needs and needs-based motivation theories. An inductive thematic analysis was utilised to explore a sample of 721 web-based comments relating to workplace harassment and conflict. The researchers conclude that if underlying workplace needs can be identified, victims of workplace harassment can be empowered through the development and attainment of unmet needs. The study calls for further research, and consideration of, a managerial shift in practice regarding workplace harassment. Specifically, based on the study's conclusions, managers should contemplate a proactive development approach to employees' needs by seeking to empower victims of workplace mistreatment.

Keywords: workplace harassment; workplace; victims; needs.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMP.2024.136985

International Journal of Management Practice, 2024 Vol.17 No.2, pp.129 - 149

Received: 29 Jul 2021
Accepted: 13 Jun 2022
Published online: 01 Mar 2024 *

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