How does abusive supervision impair follower's intrinsic motivation? Testing roles of positive affect and leader humor expression

Abstract

Investigating the complex interplay of leadership dynamics, this amended research concentrates on the repercussions of abusive supervision on worker ingenuity and motivation. We delve deeper into the intricate links between aggressive management, innate motivation, and managerial humor by utilizing principles from studies on emotional responses and humor. This approach brightens the path to encouraging creativity in the workspace. We compiled data through a series of staggered surveys from a broad spectrum of 192 employees in diverse Korean commercial enterprises. Using the PROCESS Macro tool, we scrutinized our proposed model for potential mediational and moderational influences. Our results illustrate that abusive supervision detrimentally influences the innate drive of followers; a process intermediated by their affirmative emotions. We also underline how managerial humor can influence the relationship between aggressive management and supportive follower behavior. Specifically, our research discloses that elevated levels of managerial humor may intensify the damaging repercussions of abusive supervision on a follower's optimistic demeanor. At the heart of our investigation, we underline the vital part played by optimistic emotions as an intermediary between oppressive supervision and worker innate motivation, and bring attention to the impactful, yet often overlooked, influence of managerial humor. Managerial humor, rather than defusing the situation, can potentially escalate the detrimental effects of harsh supervision on a worker's positive emotions. Hence, our research provides valuable perspectives on the driving forces behind the effects of abusive supervision on follower's intrinsic drive, and the importance of affirmative emotions and managerial humor in either alleviating or intensifying the adverse effects of oppressive supervision in a work environment.