The language at work scale: The effects of language ostracism on workplace behaviors
Abstract
Business and demographic trends are conflating to bring language issues at work to the forefront. Although language has an inherent capacity for creating bonds, it can also serve as a means of ostracism. We clarify the construct of language ostracism, and define it as any instance where others reject, exclude, or ignore individuals or groups by means of a language (or terminology) that is not understood by focal employee(s). To spur research on language issues, we develop the language at work scale (LAWS)-a measure that demonstrates robust psychometric properties. Across three samples from two countries, we identify two distinct dimensions of the LAWS: linguistic and terminological ostracism. Next, we explored the relationship between language ostracism and two interpersonally-directed workplace behaviors. Our results indicate that language ostracism was associated with higher interpersonal deviance and lower enactment of interpersonal citizenship behaviors. The potential implications for managers of linguistically diverse organizations and workplace diversity scholars are highlighted and discussed.