Work incivility.

Work incivility, or workplace incivility, describes uncivil or rude behavior on the job. It is defined as low-intensity behavior but generally regarded as unacceptable. In other words, it may not be threatening or disruptive but negatively affects others and the workplace culture. Examples include rudeness, favoritism, jokes that rely on stereotypes, sarcastic comments, excluding or ignoring individuals, and disruptive actions that distract others. Work incivility might involve not answering calls or emails, texting during a meeting, sabotaging another’s work, spreading gossip, or demeaning or criticizing someone. It can also include inconsiderate actions such as leaving a mess in the breakroom or using all the paper in the copier and not filling it. While incivility does not rise to the level of bullying, harassment, or violence, many organizations and researchers still consider incivility to be a negative workplace interaction.