LMX & Grit: The Effects of Abusive Supervision and Member Grittiness on Leader-Member Relationships

Abstract

High-quality leader-member exchanges (LMX) have been linked to positive outcomes for employees and organizations. However, not all LMX exchanges are virtuous, ethical, and effective. This paper proposes a theoretical model that explains how follower motivation is negatively impacted under abusive supervision. We propose that this may be observed through follower management of personal goals under abusive supervision and present an alternative outcome drawing on the notion of grit. We suggest that abusive supervision will act as a moderator of LMX when followers perceive career growth opportunities. Furthermore, we suggest member grittiness will act as a moderated-moderator of abusive supervision.