Content and construct of counterproductive work behavior in a Chinese context

• Shiyong Xu

  Renmin University of China

• Qing Wang

  Renmin University of China

• Cong Liu

  Hofstra University

• Yuhui Li

  Renmin University of China

• Kan Ouyang

  Hong Kong Polytechnic University

We conducted 2 studies in order to explore the content and construct of counterproductive work behavior (CWB) in a Chinese cultural context. In Study 1 we used a 4-category construct of CWB in China and the results showed that supervisor-related CWB was different from that identified in Western studies. In Study 2 it was indicated that Chinese employees’ interpersonal-related CWB involved indirect communication. The property-related CWB engaged in by Chinese employees was the tendency to abuse power for personal gain. Production-related CWB appeared to be openly expressed. The results in this study deepen and extend our understanding of CWB in 2 important ways. First, they show that culture conditions people’s thoughts about what is considered CWB and which behaviors are highlighted in a specific culture. Second, they lend support to the convergence and divergence perspectives.

1. Shiyong Xu, Renmin University of China
   School of Labor and Human Resources
   
2. Qing Wang, Renmin University of China
   School of Labor and Human Resources
3. Cong Liu, Hofstra University
   Department of Psychology
4. Yuhui Li, Renmin University of China
   School of Labor and Human Resources
5. Kan Ouyang, Hong Kong Polytechnic University
   Department of Marketing and Management

• PDF
  (USD 29)