← All questionsGS4 · 2021 · Case Studies — Public Sector ·Pawan and the Humiliating Boss (Case)
QUESTION 12
GS4
20 marks

loss of confidence, self-esteem and equanimity. Pawan realized that his relations with his senior officer are becoming more toxic and due to this, he felt perpetually tensed, anxious and stressed. His mind was occupied with negativity and caused him mental torture, anguish and agony. Eventually, it badly affected his personal and family life. He was no longer joyous, happy and contented even t home. Rather without any reason he would loose his temper with his wife and other family members. The family environment was no longer pleasant and congenial. His wife who was always supportive to him also became a victim of his negativity and hostile behaviour. Due to harassment and humiliation suffering by him in the office, comfort and happiness virtually vanished from his life. Thus it damaged his physical and mental health.1) What are the options available with Pawan to cope with the situation?2) What approach Pawan should adopt for bringing peace, tranquillity and a congenial environment in the office and home?3) As an outsider, what are your Suggestions for both boss and subordinate to overcome this situation and for improving the work performance, mental and emotional hygiene?4) In the above scenario, what type of training would you suggest for at various levels in the government offices?

WRITE IN
14 min
250 words

What the examiner wants

Pawan is publicly humiliated by an insensitive senior, harming his health and family. Suggest options, approach, advice to both, and training.

Case studyName the stakeholders and the issues, weigh the options, and say what you would do and why.

Demand-wise check

  1. 1(a) Options: endure; confront; talk privately; complain to higher authority; seek transfer; counselling≈50 words
  2. 2(b) Approach: calm private talk first, document incidents, seek mentor support, look after health, then formal complaint if needed≈50 words
  3. 3(c) Advice: boss — constructive feedback, empathy; Pawan — assertiveness without hostility≈50 words
  4. 4(d) Training: EI, leadership and feedback skills, mental health awareness, grievance systems for all levels≈50 words

Open in about 30 words and close in about 30.

Answer plan

(a) options(b) approach(c) suggestions(d) trainingConclusion

Where marks usually go

  • Only advising Pawan to tolerate
  • Missing the training part

Draw this

  • Escalation ladder: talk → mentor → complaint → transfer

Value addition

  • ProgrammeMission Karmayogi courses on iGOT cover behavioural skills including emotional intelligence and team leadership.iGOT Karmayogi
  • DataWHO estimates depression and anxiety cost the global economy about 12 billion working days a year.WHO, Mental health at work (2022)

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