Webster's 1913 Dictionary defines insubordination as "the quality of being insubordinate; disobedience to lawful authority." Insubordination is a common term used in the workforce. There are many actions committed by employees that are labeled as insubordination. The refusal of an order from a superior can have devastating effects. It could lead to disciplinary action or even jail time. However, some acts of insubordination may prevent a situation from getting worse, and some may commit it without any knowledge of doing so.
Causes
Many in the workforce sees insubordination happening over a power struggle. Maybe an employee wants to control his superiors as a way of feeling important. Some employees rebel against those in charge due to unfair treatment, harassment and bad performance reviews. Stress could also lead an employee to not follow an order. Stress from personal, financial and health problem can impair someone's rationale of not following an order.
Types
Some examples of insubordination are making a rude remark, not following orders or threats of physical violence toward a superior. All acts of insubordination falls into two categories: passive and active. Passive insubordination happens when someone fails to do an order, but there is no refusal directly. Active insubordination occurs when someone intentionally does not follow directions, or commits acts of intimidation. Passive insubordinations are harder to prove because there is no direct refusal. Active insubordinations can lead to disciplinary action.
Factors
In order for a claim of insubordination to be established, two things must be present. The first is from the employer or higher-ranking official to issue a direct or indirect order for an employee lesser in stature to obey. The second part is for the person who is directed to carry out the order to not carry out the order, or to refuse to carry out that order. Those who receive the order indirectly may find themselves being insubordinate by following incorrect information given to them.
Considerations
There are instances in which insubordination may be in the best interest of the company and more greatly, in saving someone's life. Employees who refuse to send out defective products, give customers bad investment advice or disobey guidelines that would put themselves and others in danger (such as a truck driving over the speed limit) can avoid more severe consequences than being disciplined by a superior.
Warning
In many careers, being found guilty of insubordination subjects a person to disciplinary action. Depending on the severity of the action, the employee may be sent home, suspended with or without pay, or terminated. If the insubordination causes injury or damage, one might be sued for medical and property costs. In the most severe cases, it could lead to criminal charges and lead to prison time.
