Roberta Encounters a Perceived Inequity, Discussion Questions

3. The type of conflict present here is relationship conflict. There is a strongly negative environment here created by a high level of discontent between Kent and his coworkers, and Mary Jo. Coworkers expect Mary Jo to only take personal sick days off when she herself is actually sick. Because Mary Jo takes advantage of Roberta by skirting this rule, the disconnect between what Mary Jo’s coworkers expect of her and how she actually behaves is creating a pinch. There is also a bit of value conflict here. Mary Jo clearly values the health of her daughter more than her job, and it is angering her coworkers.
4. I believe that Roberta has handled this situation appropriately. She attempted to calm down her angry worker, and told him how much his hard work around the office is noticed and appreciated. Roberta’s next step, now that this issue has been brought to her attention, is to investigate the accusations that Kent has made. This investigation could be accomplished by interviewing other employees, and by talking to Mary Jo directly. Once the informational inquiry has been completed, Roberta can take any necessary action to reprimand or terminate Mary Jo.