A question of false self‐esteem: Organization‐based self‐esteem and narcissism in organizational contexts
Abstract
Purpose
This paper seeks to explore the relationships between organization‐based self‐esteem and narcissism, and their correlates. It aims to distinguish the two constructs, as well as to examine the degree to which organization‐based self‐esteem is contaminated by “false self‐esteem” (namely, narcissism).
Design/methodology/approach
Participants completed questionnaires containing measures of organization‐based self‐esteem, narcissism, and a variety of motivational, attitudinal, and behavioral consequences. Co‐workers rated the participants' extra‐role and in‐role performance behaviors.
Findings
Organization‐based self‐esteem and narcissism appear to be quite distinct constructs. The organization‐based self‐esteem scale is unbiased by variance associated with narcissism. Organization‐based self‐esteem is associated with a variety of positive outcomes. In particular, organization‐based self‐esteem correlates negatively with hostility, while narcissism correlates positively with hostility.
Practical implications
The hypothesized negative attitudes and behaviors of narcissists were not found. However, organizations need to be cautious when delivering negative feedback to employees high in narcissism. Supervisors need to provide concrete evidence about deficiencies in narcissists' performance when providing feedback.
Originality/value
This is the first study to examine the relationships between organization‐based self‐esteem and narcissism in an organizational context.
Keywords
Citation
Gardner, D.G. and Pierce, J.L. (2011), "A question of false self‐esteem: Organization‐based self‐esteem and narcissism in organizational contexts", Journal of Managerial Psychology, Vol. 26 No. 8, pp. 682-699. https://doi.org/10.1108/02683941111181770
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2011, Emerald Group Publishing Limited