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The Paradox of Paranoia: How One’s Own Self-Interested Unethical Behavior Can Spark Paranoia and Reduce Affiliative Behavior Toward Coworkers

Author

Listed:
  • Annika Hillebrandt

    (Ted Rogers School of Management, Toronto Metropolitan University)

  • Daniel L. Brady

    (Wilfrid Laurier University)

  • Maria Francisca Saldanha

    (Universidade Católica Portuguesa)

  • Laurie J. Barclay

    (University of Guelph)

Abstract

How are individuals affected by their own self-interested unethical behavior? Although self-interested unethical behavior commonly occurs as people attempt to advantage themselves, we argue that this unethical behavior can have deleterious implications for individuals and their social relationships. We propose that engaging in self-interested unethical behavior is positively related to state paranoia—an aversive psychological state. In turn, the social cognitive biases underlying state paranoia can prompt people to misjudge the potential for social threat. This may motivate them to curtail coworker-directed affiliative behavior, thereby inadvertently undermining their social relationships. Our predictions were supported across four studies, including a behavioral study in a controlled environment, a recall study, a field survey in a single organization, and a two-wave survey. Theoretical and practical implications include highlighting the importance of understanding the personal and social consequences of self-interested unethical behavior as well as the impact of state paranoia in the workplace.

Suggested Citation

  • Annika Hillebrandt & Daniel L. Brady & Maria Francisca Saldanha & Laurie J. Barclay, 2023. "The Paradox of Paranoia: How One’s Own Self-Interested Unethical Behavior Can Spark Paranoia and Reduce Affiliative Behavior Toward Coworkers," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 184(1), pages 159-173, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:kap:jbuset:v:184:y:2023:i:1:d:10.1007_s10551-022-05141-x
    DOI: 10.1007/s10551-022-05141-x
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    References listed on IDEAS

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