misskötsel

Misskötsel is a Swedish term used to describe conduct that breaches agreed norms, rules, or duties and that disrupts activities, learning, or care. It is a descriptive label rather than a legal category and is used in schools, workplaces, and care settings.

Etymology: miss- meaning wrong, kötsel referring to care, management, or conduct; together meaning misbehavior or mismanagement.

Contexts and examples: In education, misskötsel may include repeated lateness, disruption in class, disrespect toward staff, cheating, or neglect of assignments. Responses typically follow school policy and can include warnings, behavioral support plans, counselling, temporary removal from class, or, in serious cases, expulsion. In the workplace, examples include chronic absenteeism, insubordination, unsafe practices, harassment, or neglect of duties. Employers respond with documentation, warnings, performance improvement plans, retraining, or disciplinary sanctions up to dismissal, in accordance with applicable labor laws and company policies.

Causes and approaches: Misskötsel is often linked to underlying factors such as personal difficulties, insufficient support, unclear expectations, or systemic problems. Effective handling focuses on timely feedback, clear expectations, and opportunities for rehabilitation or remediation, while ensuring proportionality and fairness. The term emphasizes the need for corrective measures that aim to restore normal functioning and a constructive environment, rather than stigmatizing the individual.