Workplace Incivility: An Integration of Affective Events Theory with Approach-Avoidance Framework

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In this article, I integrate Affective Events Theory with the approach-avoidance framework to develop a unifying theoretical model that interconnects experienced, witnessed, and instigated incivility. Incidents of workplace incivility are conceptualized as affective events that elicit different discrete emotions (anger, guilt, fear/anxiety, and sadness) for each individual – the target, the observer, and the instigator. These discrete emotions, in turn, lead to the individual’s approach and avoidance-oriented behaviors in response to the uncivil event. Next, I propose that different cognitive coping strategies can buffer or amplify the impact of emotions on those behaviors. Finally, I discuss the implications of the model and propose future research directions.