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An Integrative Literature Review of Cynicism in Organizations

The Potential for Emergent Formation at the Macro Level

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DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51094/jxiv.1464

Keywords:

cynicism, organization, integrative literature review, macro-level, contagion

Abstract

This article focuses on cynicism in organization. Cynicism is a negative attitude toward one's employing organization and is closely linked to important organizational phenomena such as organizational change, burnout, and silence. However, traditional research has limited its discussion to the micro (individual) level and its negative aspects. In addition, there are potential problems with neglecting some elements such as personal traits and emotional/behavioral aspects. The purpose of this study is to conduct an integrative literature review on cynicism in organizations in order to organize and critique past studies and to identify future research issues. As a specific issue of future research, this article discusses the possibility of emergent formation of organizational cynicism at the macro (group/organizational) level through contagion among individuals. This study contributes to expanding the theoretical scope of cynicism in organizations.

Conflicts of Interest Disclosure

The author declares no conflicts of interest associated with this manuscript.

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