The Correlation between Counterproductive Work Behavior and Generational Cohort with the Mediating Role of Psychological Contract Breach in a Multinational Corporation

Abstract

The study was set in the Manila office of a multinational organization. A survey was administered to 30 employees who were categorized according to their respective generational cohorts (Generation X or Millennial Generation). The study sought to determine whether or not a correlation exists between the previously mentioned predictor variable and Counterproductive Work Behavior, which was further classified into five subdimensions (Abuse, Production Deviance, Sabotage, Theft, and Withdrawal). In addition, the role of Psychological Contract Breach as a potential mediating variable was included in the scope of the research. CWB scores were obtained using the 32-item CWB Checklist, while PCB was measured using a five-item questionnaire. A quantitative analysis of the scores elicited from the respondents revealed that while the five subdimensions of Counterproductive Work Behavior are manifested by the employees, Withdrawal and Production Deviance are most prevalent in Company X. However, it was found that no significant correlation exists between generational cohorts and CWB. Moreover, Psychological Contract Breach was not proven to be playing a significant role as a mediating variable in the hypothesized relationship. These findings led to the conclusion that although counterproductive acts are present in the organization, the explanation behind the occurrence goes beyond mere generational differences and the benefits these employees expect from Company X.