The topic of perceived overqualification has predominantly focused on comparing an individual’s qualifications (i.e., education, skill, and work experience) and the job requirements. However, far less research has paid attention to the social context of perceived overqualification. Based on this, this study aims to extend the nomological network of perceived overqualification by focusing on the social context of perceived overqualification. Integrating theories of social comparison and moral licensing, we explore the relationship between perceived overqualification social comparison and workplace deviant behaviors (i.e., voluntary behavior that violates significant organizational norms and, in so doing, threatens the well-being of the organization or its members, or both) (Bennett & Robinson, 2000). We also investigate the mediating role of psychological entitlement (i.e., a pervasive sense that one deserves more and is entitled to more than others) (Campbell, Bonacci, Shelton, Exline, & Bushman, 2004) and the moderating role of perceived overqualification. Survey data was recruited from a sample of 238 group members and 63 of their leaders, and the hypotheses were examined using path analysis and Monte Carlo analysis. We find that psychological entitlement mediated the relationship between perceived overqualification social comparison and workplace deviant behaviors. Further, perceived overqualification moderated the above-mediated relationship. Accordingly, further theoretical and practical implications and future research are discussed based on our findings.

Authors:
Shin-Guang Liang, Yuan Ze University, Taiwan

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Shin-Guang Liang is currently an Assistant Professor at College of Management, Yuan Ze University, Taiwan.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Wednesday Schedule

Bookmark