Many presentations on the psychology of safety base assertions solely on common sense. Statements are made that sound good but are actually incorrect or unfounded. Unfortunately, it's not always easy to determine which psychology-related statements are valid. Since 1992, my regular contributions to Industrial Safety &Hygiene News have been based on scientific investigation rather than speculation or hearsay. I continue to stress that the psychology of safety is not a matter of common sense, but the result of rigorous behavioral research.
Some invalid statements are given so often by motivational speakers or pop psychologists they are accepted as fact. In this article, I want to examine seven of these fallacies. "Reprimand privately, recognize publicly." Sound familiar? Actually, whether you're correcting behavior or giving recognition, it's always better to communicate one-to-one in private. Never recognize a person in front of a group without that person's permission. Some people are embarrassed by public commendation; others fear verbal harassment from peers. They imagine someone saying, "Why did you deserve that 'safe-employee-of-the-month' award? I've done as much around here for safety as you have. Have you been kissing up to the boss?"