Analysis of Toxic Positivity Behavior and Its Impact on Individual Mental Health in the Workplace

Abstract

Modern work culture often emphasizes an extreme positive narrative, where the expression of negative emotions is considered unprofessional and avoided. This phenomenon is known as toxic positivity, which is the urge to always appear optimistic even though an individual is experiencing psychological stress. This study aims to analyze the forms of toxic positivity behavior that appear in the workplace and evaluate their impact on individual mental health. Using a qualitative approach based on literature studies (library research), researchers reviewed 10 recent academic articles that explicitly discuss the relationship between toxic positivity, psychosocial stress, and work culture. Data sources were taken from reputable international journals and then analyzed using the thematic analysis method. The results of the study show that toxic positivity has a negative impact on individual psychological well-being. Employees who do not have space to express negative emotions experience an increased risk of stress, burnout, depression, and emotional isolation. This phenomenon also disrupts team communication, reduces interpersonal trust, and creates an emotionally repressive work culture. Ironically, this practice is often misinterpreted as a form of professionalism. Therefore, structural changes are needed in organizational communication to foster an emotionally inclusive work culture. This research highlights the importance of a more authentic and empathetic approach to mental wellbeing in the modern workplace.