How to spot a toxic co-worker, as per psychology

While it is not always acknowledged, but our work environment, colleagues and bosses have a huge impact on our mental health. While good coworkers uplift our spirits and make the workplace fun, toxic coworkers can quietly erode morale, destroy team dynamics, and even affect our mental health. Unlike obvious troublemakers, toxic individuals often use subtle behaviours that are hard to detect but are deeply harmful over time. Here we list some psychology-based tips to spot a toxic co-worker:

Toxic coworkers often portray themselves as the perpetual victim — misunderstood, mistreated, or unfairly burdened. They never take accountability of their own actions; instead they conveniently blame others and play the victim. According to psychology, this behaviour stems from a need to deflect responsibility and manipulate others’ sympathy. Beware of such people and it is better to stay away from them.

A toxic coworker often feeds off office drama and uses gossip as a weapon. Psychologists note that gossip can be a form of indirect aggression — a way to damage someone’s reputation without direct confrontation. Toxic coworkers use rumors to make 'friends', isolate others, or maintain control over people. You’ll often find them at the center of every emotional storm, stirring up tension under the guise of “just sharing.” This behaviour can poison team dynamics, spread fear, and create a culture of distrust. If someone always knows everyone’s business and spreads it, proceed with caution. Better, just maintain your distance from such people.

Toxic coworkers are often jealous of others and they subtly undermine other people's potential and achievements. And when they dislike someone, instead of being direct and making obvious attacks, they make subtly digs at people. For instance, they might “forget” to include you in important emails, take credit for your ideas, or give backhanded compliments. Psychologists refer to this as passive-aggressive behavior — a way to express hostility without direct confrontation.

Not all toxic coworkers are overtly negative — some are extremely charming, likable, and even magnetic. This too is a form of manipulation to control people and how they behave. Toxic charmers know how to say the right things to the right people and at the right time, often to mask their true motives or gain favours. They may flatter bosses, take advantage of others’ generosity, or play different roles depending on the audience. Over time, you may notice inconsistencies in their stories or see how they manipulate narratives to their advantage. Don’t confuse their charisma with character — their charm is often a mask for manipulation.

Talking to true friends who support you should make you feel uplifted. However, psychologically, people who leave you feeling mentally and emotionally exhausted are often referred to as emotional vampires-- and toxic coworkers are such people. Such people often demand your time, energy, and emotional labor but rarely offer support in return. Over time, interacting with them can leave you feeling stressed, anxious, or even physically drained. Simply avoid them.