The relationship between being envied and workplace ostracism: The moderating role of neuroticism and the need to belong

Abstract

Abstract Drawing on social information processing theory, the present study examines the effects of being envied on workplace ostracism and proposes neuroticism and the need to belong as two moderators. Analysis of data from 366 employees showed that being envied had a positive effect on workplace ostracism, and the positive relationship was stronger when neuroticism was higher or need to belong was lower. These results contribute to the literature on workplace envy by clarifying when being envied is positively related to workplace ostracism.