Authoritarian leadership and organizational deviance: the mediating role of emotional exhaustion

Purpose This study investigate the correlation between authoritarian leadership and organizational deviance. Furthermore, it seeks to explore the mediating role of emotional exhaustion in this relationship. Design/methodology/approach The data were obtained from 398 frontline service employees and their immediate supervisors at 25 five-star hotels. Data were collected on different occasions. Findings The results indicate that authoritarian leadership has a positive and significant relationship with organizational deviance. We also conclude that emotional exhaustion mediates the relationship between authoritarian leadership and organizational deviance. Research limitations/implications The present research suggests that managers can decrease emotional exhaustion and, consequently, organizational deviance, by avoiding an authoritarian leadership style. Additionally, the theoretical and managerial implications of the present study can be utilized to reduce organizational deviance. Originality/value The present study adds to the existing literature on authoritarian leadership, emotional exhaustion and organizational deviance by offering a possible explanation for how emotional exhaustion mediates the relationship between authoritarian leadership and organizational deviance.