Become a victim or a star player! A process model understanding the individualized outcomes of workplace envy on young performers (¡Conviértete en una víctima o en un jugador estrella! Un modelo de proceso que interpreta los resultados individualizados de la envidia hacia los jóvenes trabajadores en el lugar de trabajo)

Abstract

A considerable body of organizational behaviour research has focused on positive and negative behaviours at the workplace and offered sufficient guidance regarding ways to improve the performance of employees in a stressful environment. While most of the above literature is based on all employees, this article has focused on a distinct group, i.e., young performing employees in organizations and how these individuals are likely to be intensely envied by existing co-workers. To test the proposed model, data were collected from 153 managerial-level employees and structural equation modelling was conducted using the Smart PLS software. The findings suggested that persistent exposure to intentionally created hindrance stressors encourages young performers to engage in deviant behaviour. The intervening role of workplace ostracism and emotional exhaustion was found to be significant in the negative process. Regarding the positive change process, findings suggested that strong leader member exchange is likely to facilitate young performers to see positive prospects of the hindrance stressors and develop harmonious passion among them.