Emotions as strategic game in a hostile workplace : an exemplar case

This exemplar case study demonstrates that, under some circumstances, staff may be encouraged by a hostile workplace to use their feelings in order to survive. This case study was undertaken as part of a larger phenomenological study of emotions in organisational life. This particular case was chosen as it depicts the story of emotions being used as strategic tools of defence against a vindictive, aggressive and hostile work place. The increase in abusive organisations has been noted in the literature: this was one person's protective response to it. The strategic gamesmanship used to positive effect included the hiding of emotions, emotional acting and the deliberate expression of emotions. Unfortunately, negative outcomes were also reported.