Dark individuals appear to be better when good things happen to them: The moderating effect of micro-events on the relationship between the Dark Triad traits and counterproductive work behavior

Abstract

Purpose: The social exchange theory and the person-situation interactionist model supported our model that analyzed whether micro-events at work would moderate the relationship between the three dimensions of the Dark Triad personality (Machiavellianism, psychopathy, and narcissism) and specific types of counterproductive work behaviors (CWB; towards the organization, and the individual). Methodology: To achieve this goal, we used a sample of 241 currently employed participants. Findings: The results showed that individuals who scored higher on their Dark Triad traits engaged more frequently in CWB, however when they experienced more daily uplifts than daily hassles, their CWBs significantly decreased. Limitations: The cross-sectional design should be regarded as a limitation, and we assessed all the variables through self-reported measures. Originality/value: Such results proved to be fundamental for a better understanding of employees’ behavior, as well as the impact of micro-events in the organizational settings.