A Multi-level Model Examining the Effects of Unit-level Culture on Abusive Supervision

Abstract

This study examines the effects of unit-level culture on abusive supervision. Utilizing Baumeister and colleagues' (2000) self-regulatory resource depletion model as an explanatory framework, I argue that aggressive unit-level culture will increase the incidence of abusive supervision, whereas people- and team-oriented unit-level cultures will decrease the incidence of abusive supervision. In line with these arguments, I then examine the degree to which those effects are mediated by ego depletion. In sum, I argue that aggressive unit-level culture will increase, while people- and team-oriented cultures will reduce, the amount of supervisor ego depletion, which then increases the incidence of abusive supervision. Using Hobfoll et al.'s (1990) Social Support Resource Theory, I further argue that the relationship between unit-level culture and ego depletion is moderated by supervisor home social support. I tested my model using a sample of 340 nurses and 52 nursing directors working in a large hospital system in the Southwestern United States. I was unable to demonstrate support for my model as hypothesized. However, I am able to contribute to the literature concerning antecedents to abusive supervision by showing that alternative conceptualization of culture impact abusive supervision. Further, I show that aggressive norms mediate the relationship between aggressive culture and abusive supervision. I also contribute to the literature examining resource depletion in the workplace by demonstrating the buffering role of supervisor home social support on ego depletion. Implications and future directions are discussed.