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Author ORCID Identifier

https://orcid.org/0009-0007-2942-0198

Abstract

This study analyzes the effect of workplace hazing on newly hired employees by synthesizing existing studies, with a focus on psychological well-being, job performance, and organizational outcomes. Additionally, it identifies strategies to mitigate the negative effects of workplace hazing during the onboarding process.

Background:

Workplace hazing is a pervasive yet underexamined organizational phenomenon that affects newly hired employees. Although justified as a socialization or initiation practice, emerging evidence suggests that hazing can have serious psychological, professional, and organizational consequences. Existing literature remains fragmented, with limited integrative synthesis focusing specifically on newcomers’ anticipated outcomes.

Objective:

This study aims to examine the effects of workplace hazing on newly hired employees and to identify strategies that can mitigate its adverse psychological and organizational outcomes.

Materials and Methods:

An integrative literature review was conducted following Whittemore and Knafl’s approach. Peer-reviewed articles were retrieved from ABI/INFORM, EBSCOhost, Scopus, Emerald, and Google Scholar. After screening 1,200 records and removing duplicates, 26 studies met the inclusion criteria. Extracted data analyzed thematically.

Results:

Four major themes emerged: (1) definitions, prevalence, and characteristics of workplace hazing; (2) psychological effects on newcomers, including emotional exhaustion and reduced self-efficacy; (3) professional and organizational outcomes such as diminished affective commitment, knowledge hiding, and increased turnover intentions; and (4) moderating factors and mitigation strategies, including resilience, mentoring, and inclusive onboarding practices.

Conclusion:

Workplace hazing functions as a significant organizational stressor rather than a benign tradition. Thus, addressing it requires both individual-level and organizational interventions to foster ethical, inclusive, and sustainable work environments.

Keywords

Negative Behaviors/Organisational Commitment/ Organizational Performance/ Psychological Wellbeing, /Workplace Hazing

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