When Luigi Mangione was arrested for allegedly murdering the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, public reaction shocked observers. However, many people showed support for his actions, with 41% of young adults viewing it as acceptable.
So, what leads individuals to justify extreme violence? Research published by the APA Journal Psychology of Violence found that a growing phenomenon – workplace burnout – may be a major contributor. Burnout can lead to negative emotions like fear, sadness, and shame. To alleviate these feelings, some people turn to extremist ideologies for a sense of purpose.
Our study showed that employees who experienced more burnout reported sympathy towards extremist ideas. This is because burnout reflects a failed search for meaning in work. When individuals feel undervalued or disrespected at work, they may seek alternative sources of meaning, including radical beliefs.
However, it’s essential to note that our study does not suggest that people experiencing burnout will always resort to violence. Rather, it highlights how everyday experiences of burnout can subtly shift individuals toward violent extremist attitudes, normalizing the acceptance of violence.
Workplace burnout is alarmingly common, affecting three in four employees. Organizations must take proactive steps to prevent burnout before it escalates into something more serious. This includes promoting fairness and transparency, recognizing employee value, training managers to identify early signs of burnout, and establishing open channels for feedback.
Ignoring burnout can create a breeding ground for ideological radicalization. A workplace that fails to offer meaning, stability, and connection can lead extremist ideologies to fill the void. It’s crucial to recognize the underlying psychological triggers behind extremist sentiment, including burnout.
Source: https://www.psypost.org/psychology-researchers-identify-a-burnout-to-extremism-pipeline