Fearless and Unstoppable: Women Rising Above Workplace Trauma & Toxicity
Document Type
Dissertation
Publication Date
Spring 5-3-2025
Keywords
Female leaders, Workplace Trauma, Resilency, Empowerment, Psychological Safety
Abstract
Women leaders are viewed differently. Their capabilities are questioned, and they are judged more harshly than their male counterparts. Gendered bias is real, and it affects womens career development and how they lead their teams. This type of bias is part of a myriad of inappropriate workplace behaviorsthat impact women leaders. If unchecked, inappropriate workplace behaviors can lead to toxic work environments and workplace trauma. A systematic literature review found that women are 41% more likely to experience a toxic work culture than men.
Additional research is needed to identify the specific impact of these behaviors on women leaders.This manuscript shines a light on mid-level female leaders in the corporate workspace. These leaders are the unsung heroes of many organizations as they bridge the gap between senior leaders and frontline workers. As such, they encounter unique challenges, particularly within toxic work environments and organizations where inappropriate behaviors are prevalent. This manuscript addresses the pervasiveness of inappropriate workplace behaviors and encourages women to be catalysts of change, championing more inclusive and healthier workspaces. It provides practical resilience strategies and tools to help them navigate traumatic experiences and toxic work environments. Developing resilient leaders builds organizations prioritizing psychological safety, empowerment, and choice. This puts the health and well-being of employees at the forefront, showing them that they matter.
Recommended Citation
Austin, TaShara L., "Fearless and Unstoppable: Women Rising Above Workplace Trauma & Toxicity" (2025). College of Arts and Cultural Studies Doctor of Strategic Leadership (DSL) Projects. 2.
https://digitalshowcase.oru.edu/coacs_dsl_projects/2
