Workplace violence in the COVID-19 era: a qualitative analysis of harassment and threats against public health professionals in Canada

Abstract

Objectives This study reports the results of a qualitative study involving public health professionals and documents their experiences with cyberviolence, harassment and threats during the COVID-19 pandemic.Method and analysis The research adopted a discovery-oriented qualitative design, using constructivist grounded theory method and long interview style data collection. Twelve public health professionals from across Canada who held responsibility for COVID-19 response and public health measures in their respective jurisdictions participated. Constant comparative analysis was used to generate concepts through inductive processes.Results Data revealed a pattern that began with mainstream media engagement, moved to indirect cyberviolence on social media that fuelled outrage and polarisation of members of the public, followed by direct cyberviolence in the form of email abuse and threats, and finally resulted in physical threats and confrontation—which were then glorified and amplified on social media. The prolonged nature and intensity of harassment and threats led to negative somatic, emotional, professional and social outcomes. Concerns were raised that misinformation and comments undermining the credibility of public health professionals weakened public trust and ultimately the health of the population. Participants provided recommendations for preventing and mitigating the effects of cyber-instigated violence against public health professionals that clustered in three areas: better supports for public health personnel; improved systems for managing communications; and legislative controls on social media including reducing the anonymity of contributors.Conclusion The prolonged and intense harassment, abuse and threats against public health professionals during COVID-19 had significant effects on these professionals, their families, staff and ultimately the safety and health of the public. Addressing this issue is a significant concern that requires the attention of organisations responsible for public health and policy makers.