When silence isn't golden: Measuring ostracism in the workplace

The present study outlines the development of a 10-item measure of workplace ostracism. Using five samples (including multi-source and multi-wave data), we developed a reliable scale with a unidimensional factor structure which replicated across three separate samples. The scale possessed both convergent and discriminant validity, and the scale's criterion-related validity was demonstrated through its relation with basic needs, well-being, job attitudes, job performance, and withdrawal. Overall, the present study suggests the workplace ostracism scale is a reliable and valid measure, and the workplace ostracism construct has important implications for both individuals and organizations.