Exploring the effect of supervisor bottom-line mentality on subordinate work well-being: a self-determination theory perspective

Purpose This study aims to investigate the effect of supervisor bottom-line mentality (SBLM) on subordinate work well-being using self-determination theory. Furthermore, it examines the mediating role of subordinate harmonious work passion (HWP) and obsessive work passion (OWP), as well as the moderating role of subordinate family motivation on the indirect effect of SBLM on subordinate work well-being. Design/methodology/approach The authors conducted two studies, an experiment and a field study, to test the hypotheses. In Study 1, the authors conducted an experimental study using a sample of 127 undergraduate students to examine how family motivation moderates the relationship between SBLM and subordinate work passion. Concurrently, in Study 2, the authors conducted a time-lagged field study involving 261 corporate employees in China to validate the findings derived from Study 1, as well as test the entire conceptual model. Findings The authors find in Study 1 that family motivation moderates the effects of SBLM on subordinate HWP and OWP. Nevertheless, Study 2 uncovers a negative association between SBLM and subordinate work well-being, with HWP and OWP mediating this relationship. Besides, family motivation moderates the mediating effect of HWP on the relationship between SBLM and subordinate work well-being. Originality/value The main contribution of this study is that the negative effect of SBLM impacts subordinate work well-being, thereby building an accurate and fine-grained knowledge base of the detrimental effects of bottom-line mentality (BLM). Additionally, this study expands the frontiers of knowledge in this area by investigating the mediating mechanisms and boundary conditions of SBLM on subordinate work well-being, effectively addressing a theoretical gap in BLM research.