Unit 11 – Research Project

Research Project

Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION...........................................................................................................................3
Overview of research & Background of research..................................................................3
Research Aim.........................................................................................................................3
Research Objectives...............................................................................................................3
Research Questions................................................................................................................3
Rationale of research..............................................................................................................4
LITERATURE REVIEW................................................................................................................4
The influence of discrimination at workplace over employees..............................................4
Impact of employees' mental health on the execution of operations by Deichman...............4
Discrimination at workplace affect mental health of workers................................................5
METHODOLOGY AND DATA COLLECTION...........................................................................6
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION.............................................................................8
Frequency Table.....................................................................................................................8
Interpretation of Qualitative questions.................................................................................13
RESEARCH OUTCOMES............................................................................................................14
Covered in PPT.....................................................................................................................14
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS..........................................................................14
Conclusion............................................................................................................................14
Recommendations................................................................................................................15
REFLECTION & RECOMMENDATION OF ALTERNATIVE RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
........................................................................................................................................................16
Reflection.............................................................................................................................16
Alternative research methodology........................................................................................16
REFERENCES..............................................................................................................................17

INTRODUCTION
Overview of research & Background of research
Workplace discrimination is simply termed as the activity when employees are simply treated
unfavourably at workplace due to sexuality, religion, maternity, race, gender, age, skin colour,
nationality, physical disability and others. Workplace discrimination is commonly determined as
one of common issue that places influence over the mental health of the employees’ as they feels
stressed out when being discriminated within the company (Neumark, 2018). This simply develops
range of others issues for the company as mentally unfit or stressed employee is simply not able to
perform their work with full intensity. This directly places impact over the productivity of
performing the same work. This too influences growth of the company as its employees are not
contributing in accomplishing organisational goals and objectives in quicker manner. The present
report is based on Deichmann, a German based large scale shoe retail chain company. The
respective company was incorporated in the year 1913 by Heinrich Deichmann. The respective
company also its presence at France and Russia but through online retail only. The overall
operational activity of Deichmann is being operated by around 39564 employees who equally
contribute in executing organisational work in rightful manner. Workplace discrimination has
acknowledged as the emerging issue within the company, therefore its top management team has
collaboratively taken initiative to conduct detailed investigation on this topic so that they can
determine proposed way to overcome this. In this regard, respected manager of the company has
developed suitable research aim, research objectives and questions towards the same. All of them
are specified below:-
Research Aim
The research aim of this project is “To determine the impact of workplace discrimination
related to mental health problems over employee’s productivities.”A study on Deichmann.
Research Objectives
 To determine impact of workplace discrimination within an organisation
 To identify the influence of employees' mental health over functioning of Deichmann
 To ascertain different ways through which workplace discrimination influences mental
health of employees
Research Questions
 What is the stigma relating to mental health issues at work?
 How discrimination at the workplace does affects mental health of employees?

 What are some of the most effective actions that organisations can take to promote mental
health in the workplace which may also benefit overall productivity?
Rationale of research
The main reason for conducting this investigation in acknowledge several ways through which
business organisations can easily eliminate workplace discrimination and safer working
environment to employees where they can work freely (Fadlon, 2015). Another reason for
conducting this research is to develop personal skills of the investigator that would simply help
them out in conducting more effective research in the near future. By conducting this research,
investigator has developed communication, team working, presentation, analytical, conflict
management and other skills that simply supports them conducting more effective research in the
near future whenever they will get opportunity to perform the same.
LITERATURE REVIEW
The influence of discrimination at workplace over employees
As per the views and opinions of Etheridge, N., (2015), it has been acknowledged that
discrimination at workplace affects the employees in a negative manner. This happens as
discrimination tends to lead to the development of a poor working culture whereby the employees
pertaining to the organisation lose their focus. Also, the immediate outcome of this is seen in terms
of counterproductive work place behavioural conduct like non completion of tasks in a timely
manner, leaving from work premises early, arriving late at work station premise. Further, it is
recognised that when an individual undergoes situation like workplace discrimination, this tends to
have a severe impact over their mental state. The deterioration of mental state of personnel
pertaining to the company results in decline in their productivity levels in the long run as their
overall motivation to stay devoted to the organisation gets vanished. With a workforce having low
motivational as well as productivity levels, an organisation tends to lack behind the rival firms
operating within the confines of same corporate sector. In such an instance, the basic morale of an
employee to work towards the accomplishment of their individual goal as well as objective goes
down, severely affecting the output given by them at the work place.
Impact of employees' mental health on the execution of operations by Deichman
As per the ideology of Weichselbaumer, D., (2016), the psyche of an individual working
within the confines of an organisation is affected by the behaviour they receive from their superiors
as well as colleagues. In this relation, it has been analysed that in an instance whereby the
employees receive negative treatment on the part of superiors or peers, this tends to affect their
mental state as well as mental health. With respect to this, it can be said that the adverse mental
state or mental health of employees has negative consequences for the organisation. Such negative

outcomes can be observed in terms of frustration or stress within the employees, lack of trust within
employees towards the company, late execution of operations, non completion of tasks, and decline
in overall productivity level of the company, and many more. With such kind of practices prevailing
within the organisation, the pace of its growth and development tends to slow down. For instance: If
the mental health of employees within Deichmann is not up to the mark, then this would lead to
decline in the market positioning of the company along with worsening financial performance.
Thus, it becomes important for corporations to undertake measures through which they can
maintain effective mental health of personnel.
Discrimination at workplace affect mental health of workers
In accordance with the views presented by Drydakis, N., (2015), it has been analysed that
mental health of individuals functioning within an organisation is quite crucial. In this relation, it is
further determined that workplace discrimination is one issues that tends to have severe outcomes in
terms of mental health of the workers. This consequently holds negative impact for the company as
in the long term it implies reduction in revenues as well as profits of the corporation. This happens
because employees are not able to work as per their full potential when their mental health is not
alright. This enhances their absenteeism at work place and leads to reduction in their productivity
levels. Further, this is also acknowledged to be the cause behind emergence of work related stress
among the employees. This increases the probability of errors made by them at work. In simple
terms, it can be deduced that the discrimination tends to instil a sense of de-motivation within the
employees and devoid them of the morale to work as per the expectations as well as requirements of
the company.
The Health Stigma and Discrimination Framework

This framework tends to articulate the stigmatization process as it unleashes across the socio
ecological spectrum that could be segmented into a chain of domains like:-
 Aspects driving health related stigma
 Stigma ‘marking’ (stigma applied to an individual or group as per a certain health situation
or other kinds of perceived differences such as race, origin, gender, etc.)
 Stigma manifestation via experience as well as practices
 Outcome for population that is impacted, entities along with institutions.
This framework also tends to discuss the manner in which stigma associated with gender, class,
sexual orientation, occupation interplays with health related stigmas.
METHODOLOGY AND DATA COLLECTION
Research philosophy: Research philosophy is mainly seen as the nature or belief that has been
carried out by investigator while conducting research. This is classified into two sections that are
interpretivism and positivism. For conducting present research investigator has made use of
positivism research philosophy as it allow investigator in believing that whatever data has been
them is true. This simply helps them out in obtaining valid research outcome.
Research approach: This is considered as the way that provides guidance to the investigator
in executing research in the systematic manner. Inductive and deductive are two main types of
research approach (Zimmer and Sullivan, 2017). For performing present research investigator has

made use of deductive type of research approach as it supports in attaining accurate research
outcome.
Types of investigation: Qualitative and quantitative are two main methods through which
investigator deeply analysis overall gathered information for obtaining research outcome towards
the same. Qualitative method allows investigator in obtaining research outcome by including
perception of different author. Whereas, quantitative method states that overall gathered
information in analysed with the usage of statics data which contributes in acquiring outcome with
authenticity (Combs and Milosevic, 2016). For conducting this research in appropriate manner,
researcher mainly makes use of quantitative method as it simply helps them out in evaluating
overall gathered information in systematic and quicker manner.
Primary method of Data collection: In primary method of data collection, researcher
personally interacts with the respondents in order to obtain research outcome in appropriate manner.
This simply includes raw and fresh information that allows investigator in drawing valid outcome
on the same. Some of the common sources of primary methods are questionnaire, interview,
observation, survey, focus group, field study and etc.
Secondary method of data collection: On the other hand, secondary method of data collection
simply means that it information is gathered from already conducted research. This is less time
consuming method as it allows researcher in acquiring information in quicker manner (Kim, 2015).
Some of the common sources of secondary methods are books, journal, online articles, e books,
newspapers and other form of published data.
For conducting present investigation in appropriate manner, investigator clearly makes use
of both primary and secondary form of data collection. In primary method questionnaire has been
selected by the researcher whereas in secondary method books, journal, online article and other
forms of published data. Both of them collaboratively contribute in drawing valid outcome on the
research problem in appropriate manner.
Sampling: Sampling is seen as the method through which researcher selects size from the
overall sample population. For selecting sample size in this research investigator makes use of
random sampling method under probabilistic sampling method (Mihăilă, 2016). Here, total 50
respondents has been selected by the researcher who had shared true information that has further
contributed in drawing valid outcome in appropriate manner.
Access: The overall information obtained from the respondents would only be accessed by the
researcher as well as authorised people only as it contains confidential information. In order to
maintain confidentiality, investigator makes use of passes or security checks so that none other than
the authorised person could access the private and confidential information given by the
respondents.

Cost: Cost is acknowledged as one of essential part of every research as it supports researcher
in executing all research activities in rightful manner. With reference to present investigation,
investigator has developed an effective budget towards the same so that all the required resources
such as internet connection, stationery, access to secondary material, manpower, equipments and
others could managed effectively. The estimated budget for the current study is £ 200.
Ethical issues: Every investigator has to follow ethical norms related to the research so that
they can simply keep them away from any sort of legal issues that might occur in the near future.
With reference to the present research investigator follows all ethical norm. They simply take
permission from each and every respondent before making use of their provided data (Anjum and
et. al., 2018). Also, the gathered information is only used for the research purpose of only. In
addition to this, consent has been taken from all respondents before taking information from them
related to the research topic.
DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION
Questionnaire
Q 1) Are you aware with the term workplace discrimination?
a) Yes
b) No
Q 2) In what manner, workplace discrimination places impact over employees’ performance?
a) Positive manner
b) Negative manner
Q 3) According to you view point how workplace discrimination affects mental health of
workers?
a) Enhances stress of employees
b) Increases absenteeism at workplace
c) Increases human errors and reduces employees productivity
Q 4) What are the different ways through which Diechmann reduce workplace discrimination
that impacts mental health of employees’?
a) Enhancing awareness among employees
b) Providing equal opportunities to employees
c) By providing inclusion and diversity training at workplace
d) Introduction of anti discriminatory policy
Q 5) Do you think, mental health of the employees places impact over success of Diechmann?
a) Agree

b) Disagree
Qualitative questions
Q 1) According to you does workplace discrimination increases employees’ turnover?
Q 2) Do you think, Providing equal opportunities to employees helps Diechmann in improving their
relation with the employees?
Frequency Table
Quantitative questionnaire
Q 1) Are you aware with the term workplace discrimination? Frequency
a) Yes 45
b) No 5
Q 2) In what manner, workplace discrimination places impact
over employees’ performance?
Frequency
a) Positive manner 8
b) Negative manner 42
Q 3) According to you view point how workplace
discrimination affects mental health of workers?
Frequency
a) Enhances stress of employees 20
b) Increases absenteeism at workplace 12
c) Increases human errors and reduces employees productivity 18
Q 4) What are the different ways through which Diechmann
reduce workplace discrimination that impacts mental health of
employees’?
Frequency
a) Enhancing awareness among employees 10
b) Providing equal opportunities to employees 15
c) By providing inclusion and diversity training at workplace 15
d) Introduction of anti discriminatory policy 10
Q 5) Do you think, mental health of the employees’ places
impact over success of Diechmann?
Frequency
a) Agree 46
b) Disagree 4

Theme 1: Aware with the term workplace discrimination
Q 1) Are you aware with the term workplace discrimination? Frequency
a) Yes 45
b) No 5
45
5
a) Yes
b) No
Interpretation: As per the pictorial presentation, it can be interpreted that 45 out of 50 respondents
possess knowledge of the term workplace discrimination. On the contrary, 5 out of 50 respondents
are not aware of this concept. Thus, the overall analysis of this theme states that maximum
respondents have knowledge about workplace discrimination. The same has been portrayed by
DeSouza, Wesselmann and Ispas, (2017) whereby the author says that workplace discrimination can
be referred to as a workplace illegal activity which is engaged in, by some businesses and tends to
hold negative consequences for it in the long run.
Theme 2: workplace discrimination places impact over employees’ performance
Q 2) In what manner, workplace discrimination places impact
over employees’ performance?
Frequency
a) Positive manner 8
b) Negative manner 42

a) Positive manner
b) Negative manner
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
8
42
Series1
Interpretation: On the basis of interpretation of above graph, it can be seen that 42 out of 50
respondents are of the view that workplace discrimination negatively impacts over employees’
performance. Further, 8 respondents think that workplace discrimination positively affects the
performance of employees. The overall analysis indicates that workplace discrimination affect the
performance of employees in a negative manner. The same has been said by Sauermann, J., (2016)
who has determined that discrimination affects the mental state as well as health of employees. This
consequently leads to reduction in their productivity levels in the long run, instilling within them,
work related stress.
Theme 3: Workplace discrimination affects mental health of workers
Q 3) According to you view point how workplace
discrimination affects mental health of workers?
Frequency
a) Enhances stress of employees 20
b) Increases absenteeism at workplace 12
c) Increases human errors and reduces employees productivity 18

0
6
12
18
20
12 18
Series1
Interpretation: The interpretation of above graph implies that 20 out of 50 respondents think that
workplace discrimination enhances stress among the employees, 12 consider that it inflates
absenteeism at work while the remaining are of the view that it gives rise to human errors and
reduces employee productivity. The overall analysis exhibits that the major consequence of
workplace discrimination is seen in terms of stress within the employees. This has been countered
by Griffin, Bayl-Smith and Hesketh, (2016) who is of the view that the primary impact of
workplace discrimination over the mental health of workers is in terms of resultant frustration and
anguish that gets instilled within them.
Theme 4: Different ways through which Diechmann reduce workplace discrimination that
impacts mental health of employees’
Q 4) What are the different ways through which Diechmann
reduce workplace discrimination that impacts mental health of
employees’?
Frequency
a) Enhancing awareness among employees 10
b) Providing equal opportunities to employees 15
c) By providing inclusion and diversity training at workplace 15
d) Introduction of anti discriminatory policy 10

0
4
8
12
16
10
15 15
10
Series1
Interpretation: As per the graph displayed above, it can be interpreted that 10 out of 50
respondents think that Diechmann can reduce workplace discrimination by creating awareness, 14
people are in support of provision of equal opportunities to employees, 16 individuals favour the
provision of inclusion and diversity training and others support the introduction of anti
discriminatory policy. Thus, the overall analysis depicts that the company can deal with workplace
discrimination by providing inclusion and diversity training. This has also been supported by Jones,
Arena, Nittrouer, Alonso and Lindsey, (2017) in literature who presents that such training assists in
creation of inclusive working atmosphere whereby no employee is discriminated against on any
base.
Theme 5: Mental health of the employees’ places impact over success of Diechmann
Q 5) Do you think, mental health of the employees’ places
impact over success of Diechmann?
Frequency
a) Agree 46
b) Disagree 4

a) Agree b) Disagree
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
46
4
Series1
Interpretation: In accordance with the line chart representation above, it can be interpreted that 46
out of 50 respondents are of the view that mental health of employees places impact over the
success of Diechmann while the other 4 respondents counter this opinion. The overall analysis of
the results implies that mental health affects the success of the company. This can be said on the
basis of the ideology put forth by Roberts, (2015) whereby the author states that the mental health
affects the individual productivity levels, consequently impacting over the organisational
productivity. Further, the productivity of a corporation determines the success of an organisation at
market place in terms of accomplishment of goals and objectives.
Interpretation of Qualitative questions
Theme 1: Workplace discrimination increases employees’ turnover
Q 1) According to you does workplace discrimination increases employees’ turnover?
Ans: The main negative influence of workplace discrimination is seen in terms of increasing
absenteeism among employees as employees does not wants to stay in the company have
discrimination. Here, maximum number of respondents agreed to this that workplace discrimination
increases employees’ turnover whereas, others have denied to the same as according to them it is
common and can be seen everywhere thus employees are familiar to it.
Theme 2: Providing equal opportunities to employees helps Diechmann in improving their
relation with the employees
Q 2) Do you think, Providing equal opportunities to employees helps Diechmann in improving their
relation with the employees?
Ans: Equal opportunities provided to employees are seen as best method which influences
employees develops positive relations with the company and stay longer within it. In this maximum

number of respondents have specified that by providing equal opportunities to employees
Diechmann can easily improve their relations with the employees.
RESEARCH OUTCOMES
Covered in PPT
On the basis of the above specified in literature review section and data analysis section it has
been determined that findings developed from the analysis directly meets with the literature
presented in the above section. It has also been analysed that workplace discrimination is directly
placing influence over health condition of employees. In addition to this, it has also been seen
analysed that Increases human errors and reduces employees productivity, Increases absenteeism at
workplace and Enhances stress of employees are seen as the main issues which have been seen the
company’s where workplace discrimination have been identified. These findings have directly
satisfied aim and objectives of the present investigation.
Stakeholders: After conducting research in appropriate manner, investigator further convey
the developed findings to its stakeholders as they are highly related to the company and holds major
interest in the outcome of the research. Close stakeholder for Diechmann are customers, manager,
employees and government. These stakeholders have simply contributed in the investigation by
effectively filling questionnaire.
Sources of communicating outcomes: In order to communicate desired findings among
stakeholders, researcher makes use of meetings, online report, and presentation, written documents
etc. so that desired information could be conveyed to stakeholder in detailed manner and also
contribute in maintaining their interest in rightful manner.
Convincing arguments: The current study conducted on the topic “To determine the impact
of workplace discrimination related to mental health problems over employee’s productivities.” By
conducting this investigation it is easier for Diechmann and its stakeholders to easily find out best
ways through which workplace discrimination can be eliminated and its influence over their mental
health and productivity could also be managed.
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Conclusion
From the overall discussion made in the whole research project, it is concluded that there are
workplace discrimination is seen as the most important and emerging issue that is directly placing
influence of businesses. It has been later determined that workplace discrimination is not affecting
businesses at the same time it is placing influence over the mental health of employees that is

ultimately placing influence over their performance. The major issues and problems which are seen
due to workplace discrimination among employees are increase in absenteeism, reduction in
employees’ productivity, delay in achievement of organisational goals and objectives, increase in
employees’ turnover and many others. The study has also revealed that business associations are
required to take several initiatives towards the workplace discrimination so that they can easily
overcome it and create better working environment for the employees where they can work freely
without having any sort of issues. Some of the acknowledged ways through which workplace
discrimination can be reduced are enhancing awareness among employees, providing equal
opportunities to employees, by providing inclusion and diversity training at workplace and
introduction of anti discriminatory policy.
Recommendations
On the basis of overall information expressed in the investigation, researcher has
acknowledged that Diechmann is required to take several initiatives in order to reduce workplace
discrimination associated issues at workplace as it is directly placing influence over performance of
the employees that simply affects their capabilities of achieving organizational goals and objectives.
As per the developed information on the same, investigator has provided few recommendations to
the business manager of Diechmann which will help them out in accomplishing eliminating
workplace discrimination. These recommendations are specified as below: At first, it is recommended to business manager of Diechmann to conduct some inclusive
and diversity programs at workplace so that employees can easily develop their
understanding towards the workplace discrimination and can easily report it to the respective
superior whenever they faces the similar sort of situation at workplace. At next, it is advised to business manager to introduce anti discriminatory policy within the
company so that they can eliminate workplace discrimination completely from the company
as it develop specific in front of employees and other managerial staff at workplace
(Mihăilă, 2016). At last, it is suggested to management team of Diechmann to provide equal opportunities to
employees within the company so that they feel independent and equal. Also, it enhances
satisfaction level of employees as they know all of them are equal for the company thus if
they perform well then they will surely get reward and appreciation for the same.
By incorporating all of these recommendations within Diechmann, the respective entity can
easily eliminate issues related to discrimination and enhance satisfaction level of employees as they
can work freely within the firm.

REFLECTION & RECOMMENDATION OF ALTERNATIVE RESEARCH
METHODOLOGY
Reflection
The overall conducted investigation has provided me opportunity to develop understanding on
several methods that contributes in conducting an effective research with better outcomes. From my
own experience it can be said that usage of primary method of data collection has supported me a
lot in gathering required information in best possible form. Also, the respective method was useful
in attaining authenticate information with accuracy that contributes in obtaining valid conclusion
towards the research problem. Along with this, usage of secondary method has contributed a lot in
completing overall investigation within limited period of time. This method has also enhanced
effectiveness of the research as it includes views and perception given by several authors on the
same. Apart from this, I have used numerous other methods belonging to methodological section
such as research approach, tools used for data analysis, research design, and many others. All of
these methods have their own effectiveness as usage of deductive approach have supported in
obtaining outcome with accuracy. Whereas, adoption of quantitative method has contributed a lot in
the accomplishment of project outcome within the available period of time. On the other hand, the
main pitfall related to the same methods was that it required highly skilled and focused staff who
could work as per the requirement of the project. With reference to the present study, some of the
research team members were not skilled and expertise as per the requirement.
RECOMMENDATION OF ALTERNATIVE RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
From the overall experience associated with this investigation, it has been analysed that I have
learnt lots of things from the experience related to the research project. I have personally realised
that usage of questionnaire was the right choice made by me as the investigator but still I feel that
this method has its own weakness as it was highly time consuming and also contains close ended
questions which restricts respondents to show up their actual knowledge towards the same.
In the near future if I would get opportunity to conduct similar kind of study with more time
then I would definitely go for interview method. The main reason behind choosing interview
method or questionnaire is that interview includes open ended questions which provide complete
liberty to researcher to express their views and perception towards the questions.

REFERENCES
Books and Journals
Anjum, A., Ming, X., Siddiqi, A.F. and Rasool, S.F., 2018. An empirical study analyzing job
productivity in toxic workplace environments. International journal of environmental
research and public health, 15(5), p.1035.
Combs, G.M. and Milosevic, I., 2016. Workplace discrimination and the wellbeing of minority
women: Overview, prospects, and implications. In Handbook on well-being of working
women (pp. 17-31). Springer, Dordrecht.
DeSouza, E.R., Wesselmann, E.D. and Ispas, D., 2017. Workplace Discrimination against Sexual
Minorities: Subtle and not‐so‐subtle. Canadian Journal of Administrative Sciences/Revue
Canadienne des Sciences de l'Administration, 34(2), pp.121-132.
Drydakis, N., 2015. Sexual orientation discrimination in the United Kingdom’s labour market: A
field experiment. Human Relations, 68(11), pp.1769-1796.
Fadlon, Y.D., 2015. Statistical discrimination and the implication of employer-employee racial
matches. Journal of Labor Research, 36(2), pp.232-248.
Griffin, B., Bayl-Smith, P. and Hesketh, B., 2016. The longitudinal effects of perceived age
discrimination on the job satisfaction and work withdrawal of older employees. Work, Aging
and Retirement, 2(4), pp.415-427.
Jones, K.P., Arena, D.F., Nittrouer, C.L., Alonso, N.M. and Lindsey, A.P., 2017. Subtle
discrimination in the workplace: A vicious cycle. Industrial and Organizational
Psychology, 10(1), pp.51-76.
Kim, S., 2015. The effect of gender discrimination in organization. International Review of Public
Administration, 20(1), pp.51-69.
Mihăilă, R., 2016. Female labor force participation and gender wage discrimination. Journal of
Research in Gender Studies, 6(1), pp.262-268.
Neumark, D., 2018. Experimental research on labor market discrimination. Journal of Economic
Literature, 56(3), pp.799-866.
Roberts, J.L., 2015. Rethinking employment discrimination harms. Ind. LJ, 91, p.393.
Sauermann, J., 2016. Performance measures and worker productivity. IZA World of Labor.
Weichselbaumer, D., 2016. Discrimination against female migrants wearing headscarves.
Zimmer, M.J. and Sullivan, C.A., 2017. Cases and materials on employment discrimination.
Wolters Kluwer Law & Business.
Online
Effects of discrimination in the workplace. 2015. [Online]. Available Through:
<https://www.army.mil/article/142799/effects_of_discrimination_in_the_workplace>.

Unit Number and Title Unit 11 – Research Project
ProjectTitle To determine the impact of workplace
discrimination related to mental health problems
over employee’s productivities.

Research Proposal Form
Proposed Title: To determine the impact of workplace
discrimination related to mental health problems over
employee’s productivities.
A study on Deichmann.
Section One: Title, objective, responsibilities
20

Title or working title of the research project (in the form of a question,
objective or hypothesis)
To determine the impact of workplace discrimination related to mental
health problems over employee’s productivities.
A study on Deichmann.
Research objectives (e.g what is the question you want to answer? What do
you want to learn how to do? What do you want to find out?):
Research Objectives:
 To determine impact of workplace discrimination within an organisation
 To identify the influence of employees' mental health over functioning of Deichmann
 To ascertain different ways through which workplace discrimination influences mental health of
employees
Research question:
 What is the stigma relating to mental health issues at work?
 How does discrimination at the workplace affects mental health of employees?
 What are some of the most effective actions that organisations can take to promote mental health in the
workplace which may also benefit overall productivity?
Section Two: Reasons for choosing this research project
Reasons for choosing the project (e.g links to other subjects you are
studying, personal interest, future plans, knowledge/skills you want to
improve, why the topic is important):
As a employee of the chosen company DeichmannUk, I decided to select this research
project theme to conduct in the workplace, after observing some factors happening
21

among my colleagues, that are involved directly with the chosen title. For this reason,
the purpose of the research is to have a more comprehensive knowledge and to better
understand the phenomenon that is affecting all type of businesses and their
employees.
The main purpose behind conducting this study is to develop an understanding
regarding the influence that workplace discrimination brings over the employees.
Additionally, this investigation will also help in determining several factors that leads to
workplace discrimination and manner in which it influences the employees' mental
health. By gaining this understanding it become easier for several other organisation to
avoid such practices and improve the productivity of their employees by providing
more mental health satisfaction. Additionally,the selected research can be also used
for academicalmotive which support in providing an insight to the students regarding
the importance of workplace equality and practices for promoting a non-discrimination
environment , with a positive impact on the mental health and productivity of
employee’s.
Section Three: Literature sources searched
Use of key literature sources to support your research question, objective or
hypothesis:
The influence of discrimination at workplace over employees
According to the view point of Tia Benjamin, 2018, discrimination is a type of prejudicial
treatment that employees may face at workplace related with promotion, salary,
duties, training, recruitment, benefits etc. on the basis of gender, age, religion,
disability, race etc. These kind of discrimination have an huge influence over the
employees mentally as while facing discriminatory behaviour they get into depression,
feel anxious, loss of self control etc. these in turn further affect the productivity as well
as performance of an employees.
On the other side, from the view point of Pham-Thi, T.T. and et. al., 2019, discrimination
at workplace is the major cause behind an organisation lack behind within the
competition at marketplace. This is so because discrimination directly influence the
growth and development of the employees, therefore several laws and regulations are
also being developed by the government for minimizing such issues.
22

Impact of employees' mental health on the execution of operations by
Deichman
As per the view point of Stacy Thomson, 2016, the psychological well-being of an
employee in directly linked with its productivity as well as functioning of an
organisation. Therefore, it remains very crucial for an organisation to recognise a link
between workplace productivity as well as mental health issues. This in turn directly
influence the staff turnover, reputation and presentism or absenteeism of employees
within an organisation.
As per the view point of Graham, K.M. and et. al., 2019, an organisation success is
totally depending over the employees as they are the one who put all the efforts
toward fulfilling the need and want of customers. Therefore, employees plays a
significant role within improving the functioning of an organisation by enhancing the
quality of work which in turn leads to customers satisfaction. But due to poor mental
health it leads to increase in dissatisfaction, stress and disappointment related
environment at workplace which directly influence the functioning of employees and
then functioning of business as well.
Discrimination at workplace affect mental health of workers
As per the view point of T. Rajgopal, 2010, mental health of employees are very crucial
for a healthy working culture within an organisation. It is so because the mental health
problem brings up negative influence over employers as well as business as it leads to
reduction on productivity or profit, increase absenteeism and also increase in costs to
deal with issues.
According to the information presented by Triana, M.D.C. and et. al., 2019,
discrimination at workplace results into creating more work-related stress among the
employees that is consider as a major reason behind reduction in the productivity and
human error. This in turn directly influence the functioning of Deichmann as due to
inappropriate mental health the productivity get reduced which in turn directly affect
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organisational functioning among competitors and its marketplace.
Within the study performed by ElaineBrohan, Graham Thornicroft, 2010, it has been
found that the people with mental health problem, are reported for being turned down
of the job due to their mental health problem. In addition to this such situation also stop
them to perform work effectively as they face discrimination at workplace.
References
Triana, M.D.C. and et. al., 2019. Perceived workplace gender discrimination and
employee consequences: a meta-analysis and complementary studies considering
country context. Journal of management, 45(6), pp.2419-2447.
Graham, K.M. and et. al., 2019. Patterns of workplace discrimination across broad
categories of disability. Rehabilitation psychology,64(2), p.194.
Pham-Thi, T.T. and et. al., 2019. The Relationship Between Gender Discrimination
Versus Job Satisfaction and Mental Health of Vietnamese Workers.
Tia Benjamin., 2020. The Ways Discrimination Negatively Affects Businesses [Online]
Available through: <https://smallbusiness.chron.com/ways-discrimination-negatively-
affects-businesses-36925.html>
Brohan. E., Thornicroft. G., 2010. Stigma and discrimination of mental health problems:
workplace implications. [Online] Available through:
<https://academic.oup.com/occmed/article/60/6/414/1390841>
T. Rajgopal, 2010. Mental well-being at the workplace. [Online] Available through:
<https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3062016/>
Thomsan. s., 2016. Mental ill health in the workplace and the impact on business
productivity [Online] Available through: <https://www.businesshealthy.org/mental-ill-
health-workplace-impact-business-productivity/>
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Section Four: Activities and timescales
Activities to be carried out during the research project
(e.g research, development and analysis of ideas,
writing, data collection, numerical analysis, tutor
meetings, production of final outcome, evaluation,
writing the report):
Identify
11.25.2019 / 5.12.2019
Creation of Title, Aims and Objectives
12.6.2019 / 12.24.2019
Literature Review
12.25.2019 / 1.19.2020
Supervisor feedback1.21.2020
Understanding basic methodology
1.22.2020 / 2.20.2020
Proposal submission2.21.2020
Questionnaire and interview preparation
2.28.2020 / 3.11.2020
Data Collecting
3.12.2020 / 3.19.2020
Data Analysis
3.20.2020 / 3.28.2020
Interpret Data
3.29.2020 / 4.03.2020
Supervisor Feedback
4.4.2020 / 4.4.2020
Literature review
4.5.2020 / 4.19.2020
Proof reading
4.20.2020 / 5.06.2020
How long this will
take:
11.25.2020
10 Days
18 Days
24 Days
1 Days
28 Days
21.02.2020
13 Days
7 Days
8 Days
6 Days
1 Days
15 Days
17 Days
7.05.2020
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Final project submission5.07.2002
Milestone one: _________________
Target date (set by tutor): ____________________
Milestone two: _______________________
Target date (set by tutor): ______________________
Gantt Chart
It is a graphical tool which support in diverting the efforts of investigator in right
direction by presenting a set of research activities to be performed in sequential
manner along with the time taken by them so that investigation can be performed in
more sequential manner on how the research project is going on the timeline
established.
Excel Gantt Chart Template
Research
Project
DURATION
(days)
START DATE END DATE DESCRIPTION
11/25/19 12/5/19 Identify 10
12/6/19 12/24/19 Creation of Title, Aim and
Objectives 18
12/25/19 1/19/20 Literature Review 24
1/21/20 1/21/20 Supervisor Feedback 1
1/22/20 2/20/20 Understanding basic
Methodology 28
2/21/20 2/21/20 Proposal submission 1
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2/28/20 3/11/20 Questionnaire and interview
preparation 13
3/12/20 3/19/20 Data Collecting 7
3/20/20 3/28/20 Data Analysis 8
3/29/20 4/03/20 Interpret Data 6
4/4/20 4/4/20 Supervisor Feedback 1
4/5/20 4/19/20 Literature Review 15
4/20/20 5/6/20 Proof Reading 17
5/7/2020 5/7/2020 Final Project Submission 1
Section Five: Research approach and methodologies
What type of research approach and methodologies are you likely to use and
why? What your areas of research will cover:
Research methodology refers to the framework that consist of information regarding
the tools and techniques that will be applied by the person who is doing the research,
in order to perform investigation effectively. The methodology that will be used in this
research project as well as why are all described and explained in the next page.
Under this section, a framework will be used to select right tools and techniques given
by Saunder et al 2007, research onion framework which help in presenting each section
systematically. The framework consist of six layer which is mentioned below:
Primary method – it can exist individual places of origin , of primary ways that the researcher can conduct
his collection of information.
Primary data collection can be noted through the method of dealing and collecting directly first hand
information, making the person who is doing that, the owner of the data.
Numerous distinct data processed can involve actions like surveys, experiment, questionnaire, interviews,
observation and other specific activities depending on the need of the collection of data.
For best results is vital for the person who is collecting the information to have complex knowledge regarding
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this action, also it can evolve it to a expensive and time consuming procedure.
The action of primary data collection is beneficial to get together unique information that is new and hasn’t
been used before by anybody, although it can be expensive its necessary to get the best result of knowledge
for our research.
Applying this technique, the person conducting the research will be able to acquire unique and customized
data. By doing this will help the company to have appropriate information to analyse and evaluate the obtain
data both constructive and systematic.
As the person who is gathering the data will have in his hand the full control of information that is been
gathered.
Secondary method–with this we will involve all data and information that will be collected in primary
research method.
This method of collection will include newspapers, online information, books, etc; it can be any data that
might have been used at any point in time or by any other researcher in his research. The person who is
conducting the research is able to collect information trough various ways like official government documents
or official business paper to be able to structure important information for the business well being.
Although through this method of secondary data may not always provide genuine and appropriate information
about the chosen topic, that’s why we can decide that is not reliable for the information that we want to collect
and will not provide suitable frame for the research. On the other side , the advantage is that is easy to collect
the information, quick and with zero cost.
Quantitative research method-this method will allow the person conducting the research to analyse,
evaluate, aiding the this method to show easily the structure for numbers or statistics.
We have several way of registrate and collect this data , like questionnaire, interviews, content analysis,
surveys, etc.
The collected data , the specific methods specified above will only be structured and analysed by quantitative
research method, and converted easily into numerical or statistic data according to purpose.
Qualitative research method-this method can be outline by interpreting the collected data and
information ,structured to have a better decision ability for the research project, as in this method is not able to
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be shown in numbers or words.
Is a very useful method to structure to the smallest detail the required information about the topic, facilitating
a better perceived ideas, thoughts and experiences, offering a good understanding of the research itself and
how information can be constructed in the form of a interview, focus group, questionnaire, etc. Using this
way we are able to emphasis the actions, opinion, frame of mind about the topic.
Research philosophy:Interpretivism and positivism are the two major philosophies
that are used for performing an investigation. In this investigation positivism philosophy
will be implemented as its is based on quantitative research and help in getting
appropriate information regarding this study.
Research approach: For performing investigation two type of approaches are used
such as inductive and deductive. Among them deductive approach will be used as it
help in gathering quantitative data about the stated topic.
Research strategy: It refers to tactics used for gathering information such as survey,
case study, observation etc. For collecting information regarding this study
questionnaire will be used which support in gathering larger amount of information at a
time.
Type of investigation: A research is mainly performed in two manner such as
qualitative and quantitative. Among them quantitative approach will be taken into
consideration as it provide reliable and valid information out of statistical data.
Time horizon:The time horizon are of two type such as cross-sectional as well as
longitudinal approach. For performing this study cross sectional method will be used
that support in completing this investigation in limited time period.
Data Collection: The information for investigation is gathered through two sources
such as primary and secondary. For this we can use bothmethods, where primary
information will be gathered through questionnaire and secondary data will be
gathered using online sources such as journals, articles, e-book etc.
Sampling: In an investigation, sampling performed using two methods such as
probabilistic and non-probabilistic. Among them probabilistic method can be used
where the sample size would be 50 respondents.
Research design: The research designs are of three type such as experimental,
exploratory and descriptive. Among them ,descriptive research will be utilizedto be
morehelpful in presenting information in detailed and more meaningful form.
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Comments and agreement from tutor
Comments (optional):
I confirm that the project is not work which has been or will be submitted for
another qualification and is appropriate.
Comments and agreement form project proposal checker( IV sampling)
Comments (Optional):
I confirm that the project is appropriate.
Agreed /Disagree: (Name of the IV) Date
Research Ethics approval form
All students conducting research activity that involves human participants or
the use of data collected form human participants are required to gain
ethical approval before commencing their research. Please answer all
relevant questions and note that your form may be returned if incomplete.
For further support and guidance please see your respective Unit Tutor:
Before completing this form, we advise that you discuss your proposed
research fully with your unit tutor. Please complete this form in good time
before your research project is due to commence.
Section 1: Basic details:
Project title:
To determine the impact of workplace discrimination related to mental
health problems over employee’s productivities.
A study on Deichmann.
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Section 2 Project summary
Please select all research methods that you plan to use as a part of your project:
 Interviews Yes
 Questionnaires Yes
 Observations No
 Use of personal records No
 Data Analysis Yes
 Action Research No
 Focus Groups No
 Others (Please specify) :
Section 3: Participants
Please answer the following questions, giving full details where necessary.
Will your research involve human participants?
Yes
Who are the participants? Tick all that apply:
Ages 12-16: Young people aged: 17-18 Adults:
How will participants be recruited (identified an approached)?
Participants will be selected with the help of probabilistic sampling
method.
Describe the processes you will use to inform participants about what you are
doing:
Participants will be informed with the help of emails.
How will you obtain consent from participants? Will this be written? How will it be
made clear to participants that they may withdraw consent to participate at any
time?
The consent of participant will be taken in written with the help of
informed consent form where it will be clearly mentioned that they can
31

withdrawal anytime they want.
Studies involving questionnaires: will participants be given the option of omitting
questions that do not wish to answer?
Yes
If no please explain why below and ensure that you cover any ethical issues
arising from this
Studies involving observation: Confirm whether participants will be asked for
their informed consent to be observed.
No
Will you debrief participants at the end of their participation (i.e give them a brief
explanation of the study)?
No
Will participants be given information about the findings of your study?(This could
be a brief summary of your findings in general)
Yes
Section 4: Data Storage and Security
Confirm that all personal data will be stored and processed in compliance with the
Data Protection Act (1998)
Yes
Who will have access to the data and personal information?
Researcher only
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During the research:
Where will the data be stored?
USB and Laptop
Will mobile devices such as USB storage and laptops be used
Yes
If Yes, please provide further details:
After the research:
Where will the data be stored?
USB and Laptop
How long will the data and records be kept for and in what format?
At least 2-3 years , electronic format.
Will data be kept for use by other researchers? No
Section 5 : Ethical Issues
Are there any particular features of your proposed work, which may raise ethical
concerns? If so, please outline how you will deal with these:
It is important that you demonstrate your awareness of potential risks that may
arise because of your research. Please consider/address all issues that may apply.
Ethical concerns may include, but are not limited to the following :
 Informed consent.
 Potentially vulnerable participants.
 Sensitive topics
 Risk to participants and /or researchers
 Confidentiality/anonymity
 Disclosures/ limits to confidentiality
 Data storage and security, both during and after the research (including
transfer, sharing, encryption, protection).
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 Reporting
 Dissemination and use of your findings.
Section 6: Declaration
I have read, understood and will abide by the institution’s Research and
Ethics Policy: Yes
I have discussed the ethical issues relating to my research with my Unit
Tutor:
Yes
I confirm that to the best of my knowledge:
The above information is correct, and this is a full description of the
ethical issues that may arise in the course of my research
Name:
Please submit your completed form to your supervisor and also attach to
the Research Proposal when submitting to Turnitin.
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