WORKPLACE VICTIMIZATION, EXPOSURE TO VIOLENCE, AND MENTAL HEALTH AMONG FACE-TO-FACE FUNDRAISERS

Abstract: Face-to-face (F2F) is a method of raising money where professional fundraisers approach and connect directly with people (members) to sign them up, usually for monthly donations. Although F2F fundraising is expanding worldwide, making a meaningful impact in emergencies, little is known about the job and the risks people might face while on duty, such as being an easy target of victimization. The study was qualitative, with overall eight interviews. The interviews were semi-structured with ten open-ended questions as a guide; they addressed the background, job difficulties, experience and exposure to violence, response and coping mechanisms, and mental well-being. Narrative analysis was performed to analyze the interviews. The results depict that fundraisers have been victimized on the streets, including verbal, physical and sexual victimization. At the same time, the most used coping mechanism when experiencing violence was repression and sensitization. Furthermore, the results indicated that exposure to violence affects both an organizational level leading to low absenteeism and productivity and on an individual level, causing stress, trauma symptoms, and low self-esteem and confidence. Moreover, results indicated a link between exposure to violence and alcohol or substance abuse.   Additionally, the results implied that verbal victimizations were as frequently perceived as a normal part of the job. F2F fundraising is increasing worldwide as one of the most effective ways of fundraising. Further research should assess and explore the interventions that organizations use in the workplace when violent incidents happen.