Professional Harassment in Dentistry (PHD)

Dear Colleagues,

Background

Professional Harassment in Dentistry (PHD) is an under-researched yet critical issue impacting the well-being and professional efficacy of dental practitioners. Harassment in the workplace, including verbal, physical, and sexual harassment, is pervasive across various healthcare settings, with dentistry being no exception. Dental professionals, including dentists, hygienists, and assistants, are susceptible to harassment from colleagues, superiors, and even patients, which can result in significant psychological distress and job dissatisfaction [1]. The prevalence of workplace harassment in dentistry is concerning. It has been reported that a significant portion of such incidents go unreported due to fear of retaliation or a belief that no effective action will be taken [2]. Moreover, workplace harassment can manifest in various forms, including bullying, discriminatory behavior, and inappropriate sexual advances, all of which contribute to a hostile work environment​ [3].

The consequences of harassment in the dental field are profound, as it not only affects the victims’ mental and physical health but also their professional performance, leading to increased absenteeism, reduced productivity, and a potential decline in the quality of patient care. This underscores the urgent need for robust policies and preventive measures to protect dental professionals from harassment​.

Aim

This Special Issue aims to raise awareness among dental professionals and practice owners about the importance of creating a safe and respectful work environment, fostering a culture of zero tolerance towards any form of harassment.

References

[1] Samaranayake L, Anil S, Wasunna M. (2021). Bullying, harassment and psychological distress in the workplace: A survey of dental professionals in the United Arab Emirates. International Dental Journal. 71(1):48–57. DOI:10.1111/idj.12625.

[2] Jagsi R, et al. (2016). Sexual harassment and discrimination experiences of academic medical faculty. JAMA. 315(19):2120–2121. DOI:10.1001/jama.2016.2179.

[3] Santen SA, et al. (2020). Addressing gender inequities in academic medicine: Reporting, visibility, and belonging. The Lancet. DOI:10.1016/S0140-6736(20)31808-8.

Dr. Fawad Javed
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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• dentistry
• harassment
• sexual
• bullying
• research
• publications
• insecurity
• workplace