Abstract:

As the literature on abusive supervision has gained a great understanding of its detrimental effects and the underlying mechanisms, how subordinates cope with the experience of abusive supervision and the effectiveness of different coping strategies are promising new directions for future research. In this article, based on the multi-dynamic model of interpersonal rejection, we discussed how subordinates might cope with the experience of abusive supervision differently at low and high levels of LMX, and proposed a model in which certain coping strategies can lead to the subsequent experience of increased abusive supervision. We suggest future research strengthen our understanding of subordinates’ coping strategies for abusive supervision with a focus on exploring new coping strategies, including individual different variables, and examining situational factors as moderators. Further, future research can investigate the negative interactions between leaders and subordinates, and provide theoretical support for breaking the cycle of abusive supervision.

Key words: abusive supervision, coping strategies, multi-dynamic model, leader-member exchange