Impact of Psychological Contract Breach on the Counterproductive Work Behavior among Nurses: Moderating Role of Emotional Intelligence and Forgiveness

Abstract

Interest in counterproductive work behavior is increasing due to the extreme harm it causes to organizations. This study extended past studies on counterproductive work behavior by exploring the impact of psychological contract breaches on counterproductive work behavior among nurses. Furthermore, the current study investigated the moderating role of emotional intelligence and forgiveness in the relationship between psychological contract breach and counterproductive work behavior. Data were collected from 200 nurses working in private and public hospitals in Multan city. Based on findings, psychological contract breach perception resulted in nurses' involvement in counterproductive work behavior. Moreover, results revealed that emotional intelligence does not moderate the relationship between psychological contract breach and counterproductive work behavior. Still, forgiveness moderated this relationship. This study's results demonstrate how a psychological contract breach shapes an employee's negative behavior. In addition, human resource departments are advised to avoid psychological contract breach cases by making realistic promises to employees when hiring. This study also recommends adopting a forgiveness culture in organizations, which will increase the quality of workplace relationships and aid employees in managing their emotions.