The mental health of employees remains seriously degraded. In France, 41% of workers were in psychological distress in 2022 and more than a third were in a burnout situation. A phenomenon far from being isolated: on a global scale, nearly one in three workers presents symptoms of professional burnout. In this context, a team of researchers from the University of Portland looked at the role of management in this silent crisis.
Behaviors that dehumanize employees
The study, published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychologyhighlights particularly harmful managerial practices. Taunting, humiliating criticism or even intrusion into private life: these attitudes lead employees to perceive themselves as simple “cogs” rather than as full individuals.
Researchers analyzed several hundred manager-employee relationships in the United States and China. Their observation is clear: when the feeling of humanity is altered, employees enter a process of psychological degradation. This dehumanization acts as a powerful trigger for burnout.
A domino effect on mental health and the collective
The consequences are not limited to a simple drop in morale. Scientists identify two major mechanisms. First, an internal cost: employees feel a form of inauthenticity, with the impression of no longer being able to be themselves at work. This permanent tension promotes emotional exhaustion.
Then, a collective impact: the feeling of helplessness and fatigue pushes employees to disengage. Less inclined to help their colleagues or collaborate, they gradually isolate themselves, which weakens the entire work climate. A vicious circle which further fuels psychosocial risks.
Focus on more human management to prevent burn-out
Faced with these findings, the study highlights several avenues for prevention. At the individual level, employees with strong confidence in their abilities are more resilient to toxic environments. But the responsibility lies mainly with companies.
Researchers advocate for human-centered management, which values autonomy and respect. Kind communication and practices limiting abuse of power appear essential to preserve mental health. Especially since, according to available data, management is already among the main reasons pushing employees to consider leaving their company.
Underlying this is a major challenge: putting people back at the heart of work organization. Because beyond performance, it is the psychological health of employees that is at stake.