Explicating Workplace Backlash from Social Justice Perspective: A Systematic Review of Types, Consequences, and Coping Strategies

Abstract

Compared to the relatively well-trodden concepts of other workplace mistreatments, workplace backlash has received little attention from HRD academics. Therefore, our primary research objective is to identify how workplace backlash manifests and how it is addressed in the HRD and relevant literature. Through the analysis of 40 empirical studies on workplace backlash, we identified three types of backlash: backlash against gender equality, backlash against work-family balance, and backlash against racial justice. Additionally, we identified the consequences of each type of backlash and the coping strategies used by victims. Based on the findings, we discussed them from the recent conversations on diversity and inclusiveness in HRD from a social justice perspective and found ways to overcome workplace backlash. This study provides meaningful insights for HRD professionals and helps to advance diversity and inclusiveness research in HRD.