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Here’s the episode:

In some workplaces, foul language seems to spew forth from people nonstop. In others, the slightest off-color remark would turn heads and raise eyebrows with astonishment. Given these differences, how should we think about swearing at work? And what research might help guide us? In this episode, we cover:

  • An introduction to ways to think about swearing at work

  • A survey of some of the research on swearing at work

  • Implications for people, leaders, and organizations 

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Links and Other Information

Baruch, Y., Prouska, R., Ollier-Malaterre, A., & Bunk, J. (2017). Swearing at work: the mixed outcomes of profanity. Journal of Managerial PsychologyClick here

Baruch, Y., & Jenkins, S. (2007). Swearing at work and permissive leadership culture: When anti‐social becomes social and incivility is acceptable. Leadership & Organization Development JournalClick here

Johnson, D. I., & Lewis, N. (2010). Perceptions of swearing in the work setting: An expectancy violations theory perspective. Communication Reports23(2), 106-118. Click here

Pinker, Steven. The Stuff of Thought: Language As a Window into Human Nature. New York: Viking, 2007.

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