The Moderating Role of Subordinate Political Skill in the Relationship Between Abusive Supervision and Affective Organizational Commitment

The Moderating Role of Subordinate Political Skill in the Relationship Between Abusive Supervision and Affective Organizational Commitment

Daniel Holmquist | 2020

Abstract

This study responded to the need for additional research into abusive supervision (a) from a subordinate perspective, (b) on effective coping strategies, and (c) using broad leadership concepts. The dissertation examined the moderating role of subordinate political skill in the negative relationship between abusive supervision and the outcome of affective organizational commitment. This quantitative study surveyed employees’ perceptions of their experiences of abusive supervision, their political skill, and their affective organizational commitment. Participants consisted of adult full-time employees in the United States who have worked at their present place of employment for at least 5 years and who interact with their abusive supervisor at least weekly. Multiple regression analysis revealed that social astuteness moderated the negative relationship between abusive supervision and affective organizational commitment; however, interpersonal influence, networking ability, and apparent sincerity did not moderate this relationship. This study provides a more intricate explanation of the impact of abusive supervision on affective organizational commitment. Social astuteness, as carried out by subordinates, functions as an effective coping strategy. This investigation opens up many opportunities for future research on the role of social astuteness in moderating the negative outcomes of abusive supervision, which will continue to contribute to the growing understanding of, and solutions to abusive supervision.