Killing me softly - a collection of studies exploring moderated mediation effects on the relationship between supervisor incivility and emotional exhaustion: the roles of negative affect and core self-evaluations

Across three independent studies we examined the mechanisms and boundary conditions of the relationship between supervisor incivility and emotional exhaustion. The current study examined the moderating role of core self-evaluations on the supervisor incivility-emotional exhaustion relationship via negative affect. Data were collected from 128, mainly German, employees. Results showed that the moderation effect was significant for people with low levels of core self-evaluations. Thus, a high level of core self-evaluations provides a buffer, but not complete protection against emotional exhaustion. Therefore, companies should ensure a respectful environment, offer personality development opportunities, and prevent misconduct by supervisors.