Unraveling the Impact of Abusive Supervision on Emotional Exhaustion: A Serial Mediation Model of Stress, Relational Conflict, and Toxic Workplaces

Authors

  • Sabeen Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (FOHSS), University of Central Punjab, Gujranwala Campus, Gujranwala, Pakistan
  • Aamar Ilyas Faculty of Management Sciences, Assistant Professor, University of Central Punjab, Gujranwala Campus, Gujranwala, Pakistan
  • Muhammad Gulraiz Muhammad Gulraiz, HOD/Assistant Professor Commerce, Govt. MAO Graduate College Lahore, Pakistan
  • Zeenat Zubair Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences (FOHSS), University of Central Punjab, Gujranwala Campus, Gujranwala, Pakistan
  • Ahmed Hussain Khan Faculty Member, Green international University, Lahore, Pakistan
  • Waqar Munir Department of Business Administration, University of the Punjab

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.70670/sra.v3i1.521

Abstract

Workplace dynamics play a crucial role in shaping employee well-being, productivity, and overall organizational success. However, negative leadership behaviors, such as abusive supervision, can create a toxic work environment that significantly impacts employees' psychological and emotional health. Abusive supervision, characterized by sustained hostile behavior from supervisors, has been linked to various negative workplace outcomes, including emotional exhaustion, heightened stress, increased relational conflict, and exposure to illegitimate tasks. Additionally, toxic workplaces, where hostility and negativity prevail, further exacerbate these challenges, making it difficult for employees to maintain motivation and job satisfaction. Understanding the complex relationships among these variables is essential for organizations seeking to create a healthier work environment and reduce the long-term consequences of destructive leadership. This study aims to explore how abusive supervision influences emotional exhaustion through the mediating effects of stress, relational conflict, illegitimate tasks, and toxic workplace conditions, providing insights into both theoretical implications and practical strategies for organizational improvement

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Published

05-03-2025

How to Cite

Sabeen, Aamar Ilyas, Muhammad Gulraiz, Zeenat Zubair, Ahmed Hussain Khan, & Waqar Munir. (2025). Unraveling the Impact of Abusive Supervision on Emotional Exhaustion: A Serial Mediation Model of Stress, Relational Conflict, and Toxic Workplaces. Social Science Review Archives, 3(1), 2109–2130. https://doi.org/10.70670/sra.v3i1.521