The Impact of Domestic Violence in the Workplace: Results from a Pan-Canadian Survey

Authors

C. Nadine Wathen, The University of Western OntarioFollow
Jennifer C.D. MacGregor, The University of Western Ontario
Barbara J. MacQuarrie, The University of Western Ontario

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

7-30-2015

Journal

Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine

Volume

57

Issue

7

First Page

e65

Last Page

e71

URL with Digital Object Identifier

10.1097/JOM.0000000000000499

Abstract

When workers experience domestic violence (DV) at home, impacts are felt in the workplace; however, little research is available on this topic. Methods: We conducted an online survey regarding the impacts of DV at work. Results: A total of 8429 people completed the survey. More than a third of respondents reported experiencing DV; among them, more than a third reported that DV affected their ability to get to work, and more than half reported that it continued at or near work. Most reported that DV negatively affected their performance. Almost all respondents, regardless of DV experience, believed that it impacts victims' work lives. Conclusions: This research identifies the scope and impact of DV on workers and workplaces. The data should assist governments, unions, and employers to enact and evaluate proactive practices to address the impact of DV in the workplace.