How Bosses Who Swear Affect Workers Depends on Personality and Culture

A new study has found that employees react very differently when their managers use profanity in the workplace. Workers with certain personality types may feel motivated and work harder after hearing their boss swear. However, others may feel disrespected or uncomfortable, increasing the likelihood they will consider quitting. The research also highlights that cultural context plays a significant role, with national levels of gender and social equality influencing how swearing by authority figures is perceived. The findings suggest there is no single universal impact of workplace profanity on employee behavior.