The main objective of this study is to reflect on psychological violence at work and on the changes that took place in the public sector. This discussion was based on some studies carried out by members of ECoS/UnB (Center for Studies on Activity Ergonomics Cognition and Health from the University of Brasília) as well as studies conducted in public organizations dealing specifically or not with violence in the workplace. This reflection enabled us to evidence the need of expanding the concept of violence, and of investigating carefully when changes are introduced in the public sector.
workplace violence; psychological violence; public service