A Thematic Analysis of Obstacles to Workplace Caring as Perceived and Experienced by Working Adults

ABSTRACT Caring, which includes behaviors, emotions, and cognitions aimed at fostering the well‐being of others, has been identified as a vital aspect of work relationships. Yet, little is known about what impedes caring in the workplace, especially from the subjective perspectives of working people. This qualitative study explored obstacles to caring between co‐workers, as experienced and perceived by 40 adults who worked full‐time in office and administrative positions. Based on reflexive thematic analysis of research interviews with participants, several major themes were constructed from the data. The themes point to tensions in work‐related values, motivations, attitudes, and behaviors that were perceived as reducing the caring experienced and expressed within work relationships. Potential implications for career practitioners and organizations are discussed, along with suggestions for future research.