Study Finds Workplace Rudeness Spreads Like A Cold

WASHINGTON D.C. (CBS) – According to research published in the Journal of Applied Psychology, negative behavior, such as rudeness, can be contagious.

Researchers say, "Just like the common cold, common negative behaviors can spread easily and have significant consequences for people in organizations."

A report by the University of Florida, which detailed the study, found that employees who encounter rude behavior in the workplace are more likely to perceive rudeness later. The perception makes workers more likely to be impolite in return.

According to the report, it's not just those who experience off-putting behavior firsthand who can catch the "rudeness," those who merely witness it are also more likely to be rude to others.

Furthermore, researchers say the negative behavior can have consequences for future interaction with partners.