The Effect of Abusive Supervision on Knowledge-Hiding: The Mediating Role of Machiavellianism and the Moderating Role of Moral Identity among Healthcare Workers

This study aims to reveal the mediating role of Machiavellianism in the effect of abusive supervision on knowledge-hiding behavior and the moderating role of moral identity in the relationship between Machiavellianism and knowledge-hiding behavior. The study adopts the Conservation of Resources (COR) Theory as its theoretical framework. Quantitative data were obtained from 408 healthcare professionals using the survey method. The analyses conducted via SPSS, AMOS, and Process Macro revealed that abusive supervision significantly increases knowledge-hiding behavior (beta = .855) and Machiavellianism (beta = .820). Furthermore, Machiavellianism acts as a mediator in the relationship between abusive supervision and knowledge-hiding. A notable finding is that moral identity acts as a moderator (beta = .134), strengthening the positive effect of Machiavellianism on knowledge-hiding behavior. Considering the analysis results, some suggestions specific to healthcare institutions, healthcare workers, and future studies were presented. Theoretically, this study contributes to the Dark Triad literature by demonstrating how abusive environments trigger resource conservation through knowledge-hiding. Practically, suggestions for preventing toxic leadership and improving ethical climates in healthcare institutions are presented. Health institutions should implement a reward system for employees who demonstrate helpfulness and teamwork to decrease Machiavellian behaviors.