Impact of workplace violence on depression among workers: A focus on gender differences

Objectives: This study aims to provide evidence for preventing workplace violence by examining its effects on depression. It analyzes the types of violence that influence depressive symptoms, with a focus on gender differences. Methods: A total of 50,385 adults who participated in the 2020 Korean Working Conditions Survey were included in the analysis. The key variables examined in this study were violence, depression, weekly working hours, and occupation. The data were analyzed using chi-square tests and logistic regression analyses. Results: The findings revealed a significant association between workplace violence and depression, with different types of violence having varying impacts on depressive symptoms. Gender differences were observed in key variables and the degree of influence. Women were more likely to experience when subjected to insulting behaviors, physical violence, sexual harassment, or bullying. In contrast, men were at a higher risk of depression when experiencing verbal abuse, sexual harassment, or bullying. Conclusion: These findings indicate a need for health education to prevent various types of workplace violence, considering gender-specific differences and characteristics. Additionally, the study underscores the importance of institutional and social support for victims of violence.