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The Interactive Effect of Perceived Overqualification and Peer Overqualification on Peer Ostracism and Work Meaningfulness

Author

Listed:
  • Yejun Zhang

    (University of Texas Rio Grande Valley)

  • Mark C. Bolino

    (University of Oklahoma)

  • Kui Yin

    (University of Science and Technology Beijing)

Abstract

Integrating victim precipitation theory with the belongingness perspective of work meaningfulness, this study investigates the interplay among employee perceived overqualification, peer overqualification, and peer ostracism and examines how peer ostracism, in turn, leads to subsequent reduced work meaningfulness. In Study 1, a time-lagged field study of 282 employees, we found that employees who felt overqualified, while working with peers who were less overqualified, experienced more ostracism, which was associated with reduced levels of work meaningfulness. These findings were replicated in Study 2, using time-lagged multi-source data collected from 300 employees working in 51 teams. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of these findings and identify directions for future research.

Suggested Citation

  • Yejun Zhang & Mark C. Bolino & Kui Yin, 2023. "The Interactive Effect of Perceived Overqualification and Peer Overqualification on Peer Ostracism and Work Meaningfulness," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 182(3), pages 699-716, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:jbuset:v:182:y:2023:i:3:d:10.1007_s10551-021-05018-5
    DOI: 10.1007/s10551-021-05018-5
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