Indiscipline in Organization | Meaning | Causes | Types of Misconduct
Table of Contents
What is Indiscipline in an organization?
An act of indiscipline or misconduct is the deviation or by passing of the established rules which should be followed without any discretion. It is an act or a conduct which is prejudicial to the interests of the employer or which is likely to impair his reputation or create unrest among other employees.
What are the causes of Indiscipline in an organization?
The causes for indiscipline are many and varied. Besides, it is not also easy to trace the roots of all the disciplinary problems. But the following are considered as the probable causes for indiscipline.
1. Inadequate or ineffective orientation of the employees,
2. Absence of proper and definite rules and regulations,
3. Failure to adhere and enforce the rules properly,
4. Nepotism, favoritism and casteism, etc., shown in promotions, transfers and placement of certain employees,
5. Undue delay in implementing the awards and agreements by the employers, and
6. Absence of team spirit and division in the employees’ groups.
Types of Indiscipline or Misconduct in an organization
Disciplinary problems may be classified on the basis of the severity of the consequences which flow from them. They are generally divided into three categories. They are:
- Minor Infractions,
- Major Infractions, and
- Intolerable Offenses.
1. Minor Infractions
Minor infractions refer to those acts which do little or no harm or which, when viewed in isolation result, in very few serious consequences, but which may become serious if they are accumulated. For example, negligence, failure to be present when needed, carelessness, minor violation of the rules; etc.
2. Major Infractions
These are acts which substantially interfere with the orderly operations of an organization. These acts create apparently serious consequences which any reasonable man shall agree. Refusal to carry out the instructions, cheating, stealing or violating safety rules are some of the examples of major infractions.
3. Intolerable Offenses
These are offenses of such illegal or drastic nature that they severely strain or endanger employment relationship. They are full of threat and menace to most people. Use of weapons, theft, fighting which result in serious harm to others, etc., are notable examples of this type.
In India, an exhaustive list of misconduct is given in clause 14 of the Model Standing Orders, applicable to industrial establishments. Hence, to treat or not to treat an act whether misconduct or not shall not arise.
