The Leymann Inventory of Psychological Terror is a tool used to measure psychological harassment, especially in the workplace. Developed by Swedish psychologist Heinz Leymann, it helps to identify various forms of psychological terror that can negatively impact a person's mental health. This inventory is particularly significant for psychologists, HR professionals, and anyone interested in workplace dynamics.

Why is it Important?

Understanding this inventory is crucial because psychological terror can lead to severe consequences, including stress, burnout, and even mental health disorders. Recognizing these behaviors early can help in addressing them effectively.

Types of Psychological Terror

The Leymann Inventory categorizes psychological terror into several types, which include:

• Verbal Abuse: This includes yelling, insults, or belittling remarks.
• Isolation: Preventing an individual from interacting with colleagues or participating in team activities.
• Manipulation: Spreading false information or rumors to damage someone's reputation.
• Interference: Sabotaging a person's work or hindering their performance without justification.

Steps to Use the Leymann Inventory

Using the Leymann Inventory involves several steps:

1. Identification of Behaviors: List specific behaviors that may qualify as psychological terror.
2. Assessment: Evaluate how often these behaviors occur and their impact on the victim's mental state.
3. Documentation: Keep a record of incidents, including dates, times, and witnesses.
4. Intervention: Discuss findings with HR or a mental health professional to seek help and resolution.

Real-Life Examples

To better understand the Leymann Inventory, let’s look at some real-life scenarios:

• Example 1: Sarah works in an office where her manager constantly criticizes her work in front of others. This verbal abuse not only demoralizes her but also creates a hostile work environment.
• Example 2: Tom is a team player but notices that his colleagues have started to exclude him from meetings. This isolation makes him feel undervalued and anxious about his job security.
• Example 3: Emily overhears a coworker spreading rumors about her personal life. This manipulation damages her reputation and affects her relationships at work.

Comparison with Other Psychological Assessments

The Leymann Inventory is often compared to other psychological assessments, such as the Workplace Bullying Scale or the Negative Acts Questionnaire.

• Focus: While both aim to measure workplace bullying, the Leymann Inventory specifically emphasizes psychological terror.
• Usage: It is primarily used in clinical settings, whereas other assessments may be used in broader research contexts.

Conclusion

The Leymann Inventory of Psychological Terror serves as a valuable resource for identifying and addressing psychological harassment. By recognizing these behaviors early, individuals can seek help and foster a healthier work environment.