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Access Type

WSU Access

Date of Award

January 2024

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M.A.

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Lars U. Johnson

Abstract

This study examines the role of unethical leader behavior in promoting unethical employee behavior. Specifically, leveraging COR theory, I hypothesize that leader unethical pro-organizational behavior (LUPB) threatens the meaning individuals derive from their work, and that this is positively associated with expediency to conserve remaining resources. Furthermore, I argue that this effect is stronger for individuals high in neuroticism. This study utilizes a cross-sectional survey design (i.e., two timepoints, four weeks apart) to collect data from 351 participants. Results suggest that LUPB undermines the meaning employees derive from their work, but they do not support the hypothesis that this influences employee expediency. Results also do not support the moderating effect of neuroticism. A supplemental analysis, however, reveals a significant relationship between LUPB and both work meaningfulness and expediency as well as a significant moderating effect of neuroticism on the LUPB-work meaningfulness relationship. This research broadens the unethical leadership literature and can provide insights for organizations seeking to foster a more ethical work environment.

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