Self-undermining behaviour in an occupational context: a scoping review

Abstract

The global work environment is changing quickly, often becoming unfavourable to employees. This scoping review aimed to synthesise the existing literature on self-undermining behaviours in the workplace, with a particular focus on their development as a concept and their application in occupational contexts. The method followed was the guidelines of the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR). A search was conducted using electronic databases (e.g., ScienceDirect, Scopus, EBSCOhost) and online platforms (e.g., ResearchGate). The list of references from the included studies was also assessed for any additional papers that could be relevant. The review’s inclusion criteria were as follows: studies published in peer-reviewed journals only in English that explored self-undermining. Of the 60 papers identified, eight studies with 4,046 participants were included; the majority followed a quantitative method and a cross-sectional design. Selfundermining was positively associated with burnout and job demands. Self-undermining mediated the relationship between several work-related factors and outcomes. The studies in this review had limitations, e.g., self-reported data. Strategies to monitor and reduce self-undermining may be a crucial intervention to prevent burnout. Organisations shall develop and implement different programs to reduce these behaviours among employees.