Understanding & Dealing With Dysfunctional Colleagues

Hope and practical guidance to those who find themselves in an unhealthy work environment. Full of strategies and realistic insights.
  • Define dysfunction and give examples
  • Compare functional and dysfunctional characteristics
  • Discuss how dysfunctional colleagues can make you feel crazy yourself
  • Identify some behaviors you may be doing that are unhealthy
  • Practical steps to take to deal with dysfunctional colleagues and maintain your own sanity

Course Lessons

Created by

Dr. Paul White

Appreciation At Work, Wichita, KS

Dr. Paul White is a psychologist, author, speaker, and consultant who "makes work relationships work."  .For the past 20 years, he’s improved numerous businesses, schools, government agencies and non-profit organizations by helping them:

  • Create positive workplace relationships and improved staff morale.
  • Eliminate the cynicism, sarcasm, and lack of trust that is often associated with traditional employee recognition programs.
  • Overcome the obstacles to help staff communicate authentic appreciation to one another.

A frequently sought after keynote speaker and leadership trainer, his speaking style has been described as "world class expertise grounded in Midwestern practicality, with the right touch of warmth and humor. Dr. White has given lectures around the world, including North America, Europe, South America, Asia, and the Caribbean.  He has spoken to Microsoft managers, SHRM and association conferences across North America, at international conferences, and to numerous national organizations.  

Dr. White is co-author of three books, including The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace , written with Dr. Gary Chapman (author of the NY Times #1 bestseller The 5 Love Languages) which is in 15 languages and has sold over 225,000 copies worldwide.  Based upon their extensive research and expertise, Dr. White and Dr. Chapman have developed a unique way for organizations to improve staff morale, increase employee engagement, and create enhanced levels of trust.  His other two books co-authored with Dr. Chapman and Harold Myra, Rising Above a Toxic Workplace  and Sync or Swim,, continue to be well-received by employees, HR professionals, ans organizational leaders.

His most recent book, The Vibrant Workplace: Overcoming the Obstacles to Building a Culture of Appreciation, has been cited as the #1 new HR book released in 2017. 

Dr. White graduated Magna Cum Laude from Wheaton College with a major in Christian Education, earned a Masters in Counseling from Arizona State University, and received his Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Georgia State University. He has been married over 30 years and is the father of four adult children.  
Created with