Out of Control in Texas

[Debra]

I'm looking for direction for my mom. She is 60 and been with a company for 20 years. She has some health issues - arthritis, lupus, etc. She is a very hard worker, strong work ethic, very detailed but slower at some things. Last week she had some Dr. appointments to determine that she has a pinched nerve that is causing her pain. She returned from the Dr. and her supervisor in front of other employees asked her if she owned a gun. Mom replied "No, why?" "Well I have one that I would give you so you could put yourself out of this misery," stated her supervisor. My mom was very hurt. This supervisor treats her different and makes her feel inferior often. But this I think, is taking it too far. She made the comment the next day as well. Asking my mom if she was sure she didn't want her gun. What can and would you suggest to my mom to do? It makes me angry that someone can be this awful. Please help.

Out of control in Texas.

[Texas709]

The supervisor's comments (especially when repeated) are callous, crude, and stupid. If she believes she is being humorous, she needs some education. If she is trying to push your mom out, she is being heavy handed and probably ineffective. However, these comments do not rise to the level of being a violation of law.

Your mom ought to tell the offending supervisor that she is surprised and hurt, and would like to discuss the issue with the second level of management. She should explain to management that she has been offended, hurt, and would expect to be treated better after 20 years of service than to be humiliated in front of others, and to be repeatedly told that she should consider offing herself.

I'd be willing to bet that management of this company does not support this type of activity from its supervisors. A good reason why most first line supervisors do not to set company policy, eh?