The Effect of Supervisor Bottom-line Mentality on Subordinate Task Goals and Ethical Goals: The Perspective of Goal Shielding Theory

Abstract

Abstract: Based on multi-goal pursuit framework and goal shielding theory, this study explores why and when supervisor bottom-line mentality influences subordinate task performance and unethical pro-organizational behavior. A total of 261 leader-member pairing data are collected in three stages, and hierarchical regression analysis is used to test the research hypotheses. Empirical results show that: (1) supervisor bottom-line mentality has a positive effect on subordinate task performance and unethical pro-organizational behavior; (2) task priority ethical cognition mediates the effect of supervisor bottom-line mentality on subordinate task performance and unethical pro-organizational behavior; (3) the intensity of task performance pay strengthens the relationship between supervisor bottom-line mentality and subordinate task priority ethical cognition; (4) the intensity of task performance pay strengthens the indirect effects of subordinate task priority ethical cognition on supervisor bottom-line mentality on subordinate task performance and unethical pro-organizational behavior.

Key words: supervisor bottom-line mentality, task priority ethical cognition, task performance, unethical pro-organizational behavior, task performance pay intensity

Zhao Nan, He Bin, Sun Xu. The Effect of Supervisor Bottom-line Mentality on Subordinate Task Goals and Ethical Goals: The Perspective of Goal Shielding Theory[J]. Management Review, 2025, 37(6): 153-162.

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