Yao, J., Lim, S., Guo, C. Y., Ou, A. Y., & Ng, J. W. X. (2022). Experienced incivility in the workplace: A meta-analytical review of its construct validity and nomological network. Journal of Applied Psychology, 107(2), 193–220. https://doi.org/10.1037/apl0000870.

Abstract: Although workplace incivility has received increasing attention in organizational research over the past two decades, there have been recurring questions about its construct validity, especially vis-à-vis other forms of workplace mistreatment. Also, the antecedents of experienced incivility remain understudied, leaving an incomplete understanding of its nomological network. In this meta-analysis using Schmidt and Hunter’s [Methods of meta-analysis: Correcting error and bias in research findings (3rd ed.), Sage] random-effect meta-analytic methods, we validate the construct of incivility by testing its reliability, convergent and discriminant validity, as well as its incremental predictive validity over other forms of mistreatment. We also extend its nomological network by drawing on the perpetrator predation framework to systematically study the antecedents of experienced incivility. Based on 105 independent samples and 51,008 participants, we find extensive support for incivility’s construct validity. Besides, we demonstrate that demographic characteristics (gender, race, rank, and tenure), personality traits (agreeableness, conscientiousness, neuroticism, negative affectivity, and self-esteem), and contextual factors (perceived uncivil climate and socially supportive climate) are important antecedents of experienced incivility, with contextual factors displaying a stronger association with incivility. In a supplementary primary study with 457 participants, we find further support for the construct validity of incivility. We discuss the theoretical and practical implications of this study. 

Lim, S., Goh, E.-Y., Tay, E., Tong, Y. K., Chung, D., Devi, K., Tan, C. H., & Indran, I. R. (2021). Disruptive behavior in a high-power distance culture and a three-dimensional framework for curbing it. Health Care Management Review, 47(2), 133-143. https://journals.lww.com/hcmrjournal/Fulltext/2022/04000/Disruptive_behavior_in_a_high_power_distance.7.aspx.

Abstract: Background Disruptive behavior can harm high-quality care and is prevalent in many Western public health systems despite increasing spotlight on it. Comparatively less knowledge about it is available in Asia, a region commonly associated with high-power distance, which may limit its effectiveness in addressing disruptive behavior.

Purpose The aim of this study was to develop a comprehensive framework for tackling disruptive behavior among health care professionals in a public health system.

Methodology A nationwide cross-sectional study relying on the Nurse–Physician Relationship Survey was conducted in Singapore. Four hundred eighty-six public health care professionals responded.

Results Two hundred ninety-eight doctors (95.5%) and 163 nurses (93.7%) had witnessed a form of disruptive behavior. Doctors observed disruptive behavior committed by other doctors and nurses much more frequently than did nurses. Doctors made stronger associations between disruptive behavior and negative employee outcomes and between disruptive behavior and negative patient outcomes. Qualitative analyses of participants’ open-ended answers produced a multipronged three-dimensional approach for tackling disruptive behavior: (a) deterrent measures, (b) development of knowledge and skills, and (c) demonstration of organizational commitment through proper norms, empathizing with staff, and structural reforms.

Practice Implications Disruptive behavior is a multifaceted problem requiring a multipronged approach. Our three-dimensional framework is a comprehensive approach for giving health care professionals the capability, opportunity, and motivation to address disruptive behavior effectively.

Lim, S. & Cortina, L.M. (2005). Interpersonal mistreatment in the workplace: The interface and impact of general incivility and sexual harassment. Journal of Applied Psychology, 90(3), 483-496. https://psycnet.apa.org/doi/10.1037/0021-9010.90.3.483.

Abstract: This article examined the relationships and outcomes of behaviors falling at the interface of general and sexual forms of interpersonal mistreatment in the workplace. Data were collected with surveys of two different female populations (Ns = 833 and 1,425) working within a large public-sector organization. Findings revealed that general incivility and sexual harassment were related constructs, with gender harassment bridging the two. Moreover, these behaviors tended to co-occur in organizations, and employee well-being declined with the addition of each type of mistreatment to the workplace experience. This behavior type (or behavior combination) effect remained significant even after controlling for behavior frequency. The findings are interpreted from perspectives on sexual aggression, social power, and multiple victimization.