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Understanding the Paradox of Unethical Pro-Organizational Behavior: Development and Validation of a New Thought Experiment Measure

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  • Liu, Chuanjun

    (Sichuan University)

  • Zou, Lemei
  • Wu, Junhong
  • Wang, Taolin
  • Abbas, Syed Zain

Abstract

Previous studies have highlighted the paradoxical nature of unethical pro-organizational behavior (UPB), yet no measurement tools specifically targeting this paradox have been developed. This study introduces a new thought experiment measure based on the five-phase development framework by Hinkin (1995, 1998). Phase one, concept clarification, adopted the widely accepted UPB definition from Umphress et al. (2010). Phase two developed and initially validated seven UPB scenarios with high content and ecological validity, capturing the paradox that employees experience regarding UPB (Study 1). Phase three demonstrated that the employees’ UPB choices in these scenarios showed high internal consistency and structural validity (Study 2). Phase four demonstrated high criterion and discriminant validity compared to Umphress et al.’s UPB scale, along with high test-retest reliability (Study 3). Phase five examined the cognitive process underlying UPB through the lens of dual-process theory (Study 4). Cognitive load manipulations (with or without load) revealed that employees under cognitive load made faster decisions but exhibited lower UPB choice frequency, thereby supporting the paradoxical nature of UPB and its cognitive underpinnings. Theoretical and practical implications were discussed.

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  • Liu, Chuanjun & Zou, Lemei & Wu, Junhong & Wang, Taolin & Abbas, Syed Zain, 2025. "Understanding the Paradox of Unethical Pro-Organizational Behavior: Development and Validation of a New Thought Experiment Measure," OSF Preprints uamxy_v2, Center for Open Science.
    • Handle: RePEc:osf:osfxxx:uamxy_v2
    DOI: 10.31219/osf.io/uamxy_v2
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Yuxiang Luan & Kai Zhao & Zheyuan Wang & Feng Hu, 2023. "Exploring the Antecedents of Unethical Pro-organizational Behavior (UPB): A Meta-Analysis," Journal of Business Ethics, Springer, vol. 187(1), pages 119-136, September.
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