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

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