The Impact of Workplace Ostracism on Coworker Directed Deviant Behavior in Telecommunication Sector: Examining the Mediating Roles of Psychological Contract Breach and Negative Reciprocity Beliefs

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of workplace ostracism on coworker directed deviant behavior in the telecommunication sector of Pakistan, with emphasis on the mediating roles of psychological contract breach and negative reciprocity beliefs. Grounded in social exchange theory, the study examines how experiences of social exclusion and neglect in the workplace influence employees’ psychological perceptions and subsequent behavioral responses towards coworkers. Data were collected through structured questionnaire of 180 employees working in major telecom organization in Pakistan (PTCL) using sampling technique and the results were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) to test hypothesis. The findings reveal that workplace ostracism has significant positive effect on coworker directed deviant behavior. Moreover, psychological contract breach and negative reciprocity beliefs mediate this relationship, indicating that ostracized employees are more likely to perceive violation of implicit organizational obligations and develop retaliatory beliefs which in turn increase deviant behaviors towards colleagues. These results highlight the critical role of social exclusion and psychological processes in shaping harmful workplace behaviors. This study underscores the need for telecommunication organization to foster inclusive work environment, manage employee expectations and address perceptions of unfair treatment. Overall, this research contributes to the literature by providing empirical evidence on the mechanism through which workplace ostracism influences deviant behavior and offers practical recommendations to mitigate its adverse effects in the organizational settings.