Workplace Ostracism Scale

The Workplace Ostracism Scale measures the extent to which an employee feels excluded, ignored, or dismissed by colleagues and supervisors—a form of social exclusion distinct from harassment but equally harmful to mental health and performance. Developed by Ferris, Brown, Berry, and Lian, the WOS captures subtle exclusionary behaviors: being left out of conversations, having contributions ignored, or being given the silent treatment. Workplace ostracism predicts depression, anxiety, reduced engagement, and turnover, making it critical for identifying and addressing subtle organizational toxicity.