This study examined the relationship between physical harassment and worker’s alienation in public agencies in Rivers State. Specifically, the study investigated how physical intimidation, workplace assault, and coercion/forceful interactions influence social isolation among employees in public sector organizations. The study was anchored on Alienation Theory and the Workplace Aggression Theory, as both theories provide relevant explanations for the relationship between physical harassment and worker’s alienation in public agencies. A cross-sectional survey research design was adopted for the study. The population comprised 1,280 employees drawn from selected public agencies in Rivers State, while a sample size of 304 respondents was determined using the Taro Yamane formula. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson Product Moment Correlation. The findings revealed a moderate positive relationship between physical intimidation and social isolation (r = 0.574, p < 0.05). The study also found a strong positive relationship between workplace assault and social isolation (r = 0.618, p < 0.05). Furthermore, coercion/forceful interactions showed a strong positive relationship with social isolation (r = 0.592, p < 0.05). The study concluded that physical harassment significantly contributes to worker’s alienation in public agencies by creating fear, emotional withdrawal, and reduced workplace interaction among employees. The study recommended the implementation of strict anti-harassment policies, effective reporting mechanisms, and employee support programmes to promote safer and more inclusive work environments in public agencies.
Publication Date: 2026-06-14