Challenge Tips

Day 2 — From Incivility to Violence

Workplace violence rarely begins with extreme acts. It often starts with smaller behaviors such as dismissive comments, exclusion, eyerolling, sarcasm, or gossip that can escalate when left unaddressed. 

Recognizing this progression allows for earlier, safer intervention. 

The American Nurses Association describes a continuum of behaviors ranging from incivility to bullying to workplace violence. 

Incivility refers to low-intensity, disrespectful behaviors that violate norms of mutual respect and are often ambiguous or difficult to address directly. While these actions may seem minor, they can erode trust and contribute to a negative work environment over time. 

Bullying, in contrast, involves repeated, intentional acts of hostility or aggression, often characterized by a power imbalance, that cause harm or distress over time. As behaviors intensify and become more targeted, the impact on individuals and teams becomes more significant. 

Review the ANA Workplace Violence page, which includes the full position statement and additional guidance and resources. 

Your Action for Today
Observe your work environment with fresh eyes. Notice: 

• Behaviors that feel disrespectful or demeaning 
• Patterns that are repeated or normalized 
• Moments when silence allows harm to continue 

Awareness is a powerful prevention tool, not just in noticing others, but in recognizing our own behaviors as well. 

If you notice a small behavior today, whether your own or someone else’s, practice interrupting it gently in real time, even with something as simple as redirecting the conversation. 

Join us on day 3: A sneak peek - Reflect on how workplace behaviors affect you, and the care you provide. 

Missed day 1? Catch up here.