Psychological Impacts of Workplace Harassment Among the TVET College Employees in Gauteng South Africa

Workplace harassment is not only a South African issue but a global problem, affecting many people in different countries and cultures. Workplace Harassment can be described as unwanted or unwelcoming behaviour, from an individual likely in higher position abusing his power to undermine, humiliates, or causes physical or emotional harm to someone. The study intents to reflect on the impact of workplace harassment particularly on the psychological aspect, of individual’s being affected. The study was conducted in South Africa, Gauteng Province, targeting the employees of Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College. Participants were ranging from 20-60 years of age and 100% TVET employees within Gauteng Province. The data was collected using a mixed method survey questionnaire formatted in a google form. The questionnaire used includes both closed-ended questions and exploratory questions, and thematic data analysis was used. The surveys questionnaires were sent to individual participants through their emails. The surveys questionnaires were sent to individual participants through their emails. The findings of the study are similar to some other research articles conducted in Higher Institutions such Universities, excluding the TVET Colleges. Workplace harassment is noted to be undeniable cause of negative psychological issues in work environment, and to the effect that exposure to chronic workplace harassment is associated with long-term psychological effects or distresses such as anxiety disorders, depression and posttraumatic stress disorders.