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Free yourself from professionalism trap: A self-control explanation of the negative effect of involuntary professionalism

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  • Zhang, Xue
  • Ma, Chao

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to propose a two-pathway model to investigate the dark side of professionalism among employees. Specifically, drawing from integrative self-control theory, we anticipate that involuntary professionalism will increase employees’ cognitive deletion and reduce their work inspiration and as a result, will have a negative impact on their performance goal progress. Further, we argue that employees’ psychological reactions toward involuntary professionalism are contingent on motivational climates in the workplace, such that a mastery climate will attenuate the negative effect of involuntary professionalism while a performance climate will strengthen its negative effect. The results of a multi-wave field study (N = 309) and a multi-wave, multi-source field supplementary study (N = 584) supported our hypothesized model. The theoretical and practical implications of our findings are also discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Zhang, Xue & Ma, Chao, 2025. "Free yourself from professionalism trap: A self-control explanation of the negative effect of involuntary professionalism," Journal of Business Research, Elsevier, vol. 192(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jbrese:v:192:y:2025:i:c:s0148296325001444
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jbusres.2025.115321
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