Self-Efficacy as the Saviour: Defending Psychological Well-Being against the Destructive Power of Social Undermining

Abstract

Employee psychological well-being is crucial for fostering a positive work environment and ensuring organisational success. Social undermining, which disrupts workplace relationships, often leads to stress, anxiety, and burnout. However, self-efficacy - the belief in one's ability to successfully perform tasks - can help mitigate these adverse effects. This study investigates the detrimental impact of social undermining on employees' psychological well-being and examines the protective role of self-efficacy. Data were collected from 582 employees in the fast-moving consumer goods sector. The findings underscore the importance of prioritising psychological well-being in the workplace and reveal how self-efficacy can act as a buffer against the harmful effects of social undermining. By exploring the interplay between social undermining, self-efficacy, and psychological well-being, this study provides valuable insights into their influence on employee outcomes. Furthermore, the research highlights strategies for minimising the negative impact of undermining behaviours by co-workers and supervisors, thereby fostering a healthier work environment.