Understanding the impact of workplace ostracism on instigated workplace incivility with effects of narcissism and perceived organizational support

Abstract

The present scholarly investigation, in the purview of theoretical underpinnings of Social Exchange Theory, explains the connection between workplace ostracism and workplace incivility with mediation of negative emotions and moderation of narcissism and perceived organizational support (POS) among Higher Education Faculty. Using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) facilitated by Smart PLS-4 software; the study examined 515 responses from academic professionals within higher education sector of Pakistan while collecting responses in two waves with a two-month gap. Findings substantiate a positive link between workplace ostracism and incivility with mediation of negative emotions on the highlighted relationship. Moreover, the relationship is moderated by narcissism in way that it strengthens for individuals with higher levels of narcissism. Also, POS moderates the relationship between negative emotions and incivility in a way that the relationship gets weaker for higher level of POS. Interplay between workplace ostracism and incivility with mediation of negative emotions and moderating influences of narcissism and POS, has not been investigated in prior research. This study adds to the literature on Social Exchange Theory and provides significant insights to organizations, especially higher education sector, in formulating policies to manage the issues related to workplace ostracism and incivility. Furthermore, the study also highlights the importance of POS.