Wann wird negative Reziprozität am Arbeitsplatz akzeptiert? Eine quasi-experimentelle Untersuchung

The quasi-experimental vignette study examines the acceptance of negatively reciprocal behavior at the workplace through independent observers. Participants in an online survey were asked to judge the acceptability of different scenarios – for instance layoffs on the side of the employer or theft on the side of the employee. The results show that the type of reciprocal behavior plays a central role for the assessment: Legal aspects seem to be crucial; reactions that were associated with coercion or property crimes were judged as particularly unacceptable. Furthermore, stronger forms of retaliation are less accepted than weaker forms. Judgment is also influenced by the triggering action and to a lesser extent by the characteristics of employees and employers described. Individual characteristics of survey participants do not have a strong impact on assessments.