WORKPLACE OSTRACISM AND WORKPLACE INCIVILITY LEAD TOWARDS COUNTERPRODUCTIVE WORK BEHAVIOUR, MEDIATING THE OFFER OF INTENTIONS TO SABOTAGE

Abstract

This study investigates how active and passive workplace stressors—specifically ostracism and incivility—contribute to the emergence of counterproductive work behaviour (CWB) among nurses working in public and private hospitals in Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Drawing on the Theory of Reasoned Action, the research examines the mediating role of intentions to sabotage in this relationship. Data was collected from a sample of 77 nurses through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS. The study employed a deductive approach and empirical methodology to test the proposed relationships. The findings reveal that workplace ostracism is positively associated with counterproductive behavior, and intentions to sabotage partially mediate this relationship. Although the study initially hypothesized the inclusion of narcissistic personality and employee cynicism, the primary analysis centers on ostracism, incivility, and sabotage intentions. This research contributes novel insights into how subtle forms of mistreatment in the workplace can evolve into harmful behaviors, emphasizing the importance of early interventions. By identifying and managing intentions to sabotage at an early stage, organizations—particularly within the healthcare sector—can potentially prevent escalation into more severe behavioral outcomes. The study offers practical implications for creating a more inclusive and respectful organizational environment, thereby reducing the risk of employee cynicism and organizational harm.

Keywords: Workplace Ostracism, Narcissistic Personality, Intentions to Sabotage, Employee Cynicism, Hospitality sector, Nurses.