'This is extremely inappropriate': Manager's stupid trauma-sharing "icebreaker" generates some unexpected results, leaves internet bewildered

Some things aren't meant to be discussed in a professional workplace setting, as any discussion around them could be found to be offensive or off-putting. Conversing on topics like politics, religion, sex, and drugs (along with any other highly personal, private, or polarizing discussions) is a surefire way to get yourself acquainted with your company's HR—who may not be all that happy about all the extra paperwork you've caused them.

No… some topics—like sharing your worst trauma, are better saved for close friends, family, support groups, and therapy sessions—and do not make for a fun and light conversational starter to get to know your coworkers.

That's why the internet was so shocked and bewildered at this workplace icebreaker where the manager insisted that each member of the team share "something difficult" from their childhoods. It's easy to forget that not everyone shares the same experiences… and that some people have had to overcome some truly horrible things from their past. Couple this with the fact that some of us are completely unable to make things up on the spot and don't even need the invitation to overshare in the first place… and you have a recipe for an HR disaster.

One of the team members who partook in this icebreaker shared their experience with Reddit's r/antiwork subreddit, to the horror of readers who quickly condemned the boss who thought that this was a good idea in the first place.

Keep reading for the original thread and reactions.

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Posted by Brad Dickson