Lack of reciprocity and strain: Narcissism as a moderator of the association between feeling under-benefited and irritation

Abstract

Previous workplace research on narcissists has mainly focused on their performance or their role as leaders. However, little is known about their reaction to work stressors. The current study examined the moderating role of narcissism in the relationship between lack of reciprocity (feeling under-benefited) and irritation. Based on the notion that narcissists have an inflated self-view and a sense of entitlement, we proposed that lack of reciprocity would be positively related to irritation as an indicator of impaired well-being, and that the reaction to lack of reciprocity of those scoring high on narcissism should be particularly strong. We tested these hypotheses in a cross-sectional study with two samples, the first consisting of 106 pilots in the Swiss air force and the second comprising 103 employees in various Swiss organizations. In line with our assumptions, lack of reciprocity was positively related to irritation. Moreover, this relationship was stronger among participants who were high, as compared to low in narcissism. Practical implications of these results are discussed.

Keywords:

• narcissism
• lack of reciprocity
• equity
• fairness
• stress
• irritation
• well-being
• work-related stress

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to thank Matthias Bucher, Martial Berset, Ruth Häusler, Aurélie Urwyler, Andrea Huber, Claudia Portmann, and Carmen Prevost for their help during the data collection and Paul E. Spector for his helpful comments on this paper.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Laurenz L. Meier

Laurenz L. Meier is now at the Department of Psychology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA