Perceived Victimization Moderates Self-Reports of Workplace Aggression and Conflict

Victor Jockin

Richard D. Arvey 

Matt McGue 

Keywords: Workplace Aggression, Organizational Conflict, Perceived Victimization, Personality, Antisocial Behavior

The Study: This study examined how perceived victimization moderates the relationship between individual risk factors and self-reported workplace aggression and conflict. The sample consisted of 489 employed men aged 32 to 36, who completed personality inventories, questionnaires on antisocial behavior and alcohol abuse, as well as reports of workplace experiences.

Main Findings: Workplace aggression and conflict were significantly related to personality traits (stress reaction, aggression, and control), past antisocial behavior, and alcohol abuse. These associations were stronger among individuals with higher levels of perceived victimization (alienation), indicating that feeling mistreated or unfairly targeted increases the likelihood of aggressive responses.

Practical Implications: Recognizing the moderating role of perceived victimization can improve prediction and prevention of aggressive behavior at work. This highlights the importance of fostering organizational justice and providing psychological support to mitigate perceptions of unfairness and reduce conflict risks.

Reference: Jockin, V., Arvey, R. D., & McGue, M. (2001). Perceived victimization moderates self-reports of workplace aggression and conflict. Journal of Applied Psychology, 86(6), 1262–1269. https://doi.org/10.1037/0021-9010.86.6.1262

Jockin et al 2001.pdf

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