From improper to acceptable: How perpetrators neutralize workplace bullying behaviors in the cyber world

Abstract

Workplace cyberbullying is a growing phenomenon with important consequences ranging from employee mental strain and low job satisfaction to hostile organizational climates. In this paper, we examine how workplace cyberbullies justify their bullying behaviors and how cyber communication features influence workplace cyberbullying behaviors. Drawing from the neutralization theory and the social presence theory, we develop a research model that incorporates cyber communication features that explain how perpetrators legitimize their workplace cyberbullying acts. To empirically test our model, we collected 473 responses from employees across a variety of job positions, companies, and industries. Our results highlight three denial neutralization techniques used by perpetrators to justify their workplace cyberbullying behaviors and demonstrate the moderating effects of cyber communication features.