A national study of New Zealand primary-school teaching professionals’ experiences of offensive behavior at the workplace

Abstract

Abstract Although a reported concern, few studies have investigated both prevalence and moderating variables associated with offensive behaviors experienced by teaching professionals. This study analyzed 2866 survey responses of New Zealand teaching professionals in 991 primary schools to determine the prevalence of key offensive behaviors against teaching professionals, the main perpetrators of these offenses, and the impact key socio-demographic variables had on victimization. The findings indicate that particular groups of teaching professionals, and those in urban schools—are more likely to experience certain offensive behaviors. The varied nature of offensive behaviors experienced warrants intervention within the school and the broader community.