How supervisor bottom-line mentality transfers to abusive behavior: An objectification perspective

Drawing on objectification theory, we propose that supervisors’ bottom-line mentality (BLM) can lead to abusive behavior toward subordinates by evoking an objectification mindset, with perceived subordinate performance as a moderator. Specifically, we suggest that supervisors who focus solely on bottom-line outcomes may view their subordinates as mere instruments for achieve goals, ultimately resulting in abusive behavior. Perceived low subordinate performance will exacerbate this relationship. We conducted a three-wave, multi-source field survey (Study 1, N = 300) and a vignette-based experiment (Study 2, N = 173), both of which consistently supported for our hypotheses. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.