A new study proves once again what we already know about bad management and leadership. Wayne Hochwarter, an associate professor of management in FSU’s College of Business, and two doctoral students have completed a study that documents the magnitude of the problem of the big bad boss. It also highlights some of the effects of nightmare bosses on employee performance and health. Among the results:

• Thirty-nine percent noted that their supervisor failed to keep promises.
  
• Thirty-seven percent reported that their supervisor failed to give credit when due.
  
• Thirty-one percent of respondents reported that their supervisor gave them the "silent treatment" in the past year.
  
• Twenty-seven percent noted that their supervisor made negative comments about them to other employees or managers.
  
• Twenty-four percent reported that their supervisor invaded their privacy.
  
• Twenty-three percent indicated that their supervisor blames others to cover up mistakes or to minimize embarrassment.

Employees stuck in an abusive relationship experienced more exhaustion, job tension, nervousness, depressed mood and mistrust. They also were less likely to take on additional tasks, such as working longer or on weekends, and were generally less satisfied with their job. Also, employees were more likely to leave if involved in an abusive relationship than if dissatisfied with pay.

The results of the study have been scheduled for publication in an upcoming issue of The Leadership Quarterly, a journal read by scholars, consultants, practicing managers, executives and administrators, as well as those who teach leadership.

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