SummaryA qualitative study of recipients' and observers' reactions to discipline events was conducted. Data from 123 recipient interviews and 46 observer interviews were content analyszed and categorized. Results showed that while both groups see positive results from discipline, recipients and observers may lose respect for the discipliner, and may develop negative attitudes toward the organization as a consequence of the discipline. They are also likely to perceive the discipline event as unfair, especially when discipline is applied for informal as opposed to formal rule violations.

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This study examined recipients' perceptions of workplace discipline. Females delivering discipline were perceived to be less effective and less fair than males. Both recipients' biases and behavior differences by male and female supervisors appear to contribute to reduced effectiveness. These results suggest the need to raise the awareness of managers and subordinates regarding potential negative reactions to females administering discipline. Special training in discipline delivery for female managers may also be warranted.

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