Effect of despotic leadership on counterproductive behavior: the role of reduced organization-based self-esteem and emotional stability

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this paper was to examine the effect of despotic leadership behavior on followers' counterproductive behavior.It was also hypothesized that the effect would be mediated by reduced organization-based self-esteem (ROBSE) and moderated by employee emotional stability.We draw upon the conservation of resources perspective and social exchange theory. Theoretical framework: We draw upon social exchange theory.Design/methodology/approach: The setting of the study was SMEs (small and medium enterprises) in the Gujranwala Division of Pakistan.Time-lagged data were collected from 227 supervisor-subordinate dyads.Structural equation modeling was applied to test the direct and mediating effects.Interaction moderation was performed using Hayes' PROCESS macro in SPSS.Findings: The findings suggest that despotic leadership has a positive effect on counterproductive behavior.Reduced organization-based self-esteem partially mediates the influence of despotic leadership on counterproductive behavior.Similarly, emotional stability moderates the impact of despotic leadership on counterproductive behavior. Research Practical & Social Implications:The phenomenon of despotic leadership is not new in organizations; however, it has only recently attracted interest from researchers.It is a good time to empirically investigate the impacts this leadership style can have on subordinates.Originality/Value: For the first time, it is confirmed by our results that despotic How to cite:

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