The effect of affective commitment on unethical pro-organizational behavior: the mediation of need for affiliation and the moderation of moral identity

With rise of ethics scandals in organization, research has extensively explored the factors influencing employee unethical pro-organizational behavior (UPB) within the workplace. This study investigates the relationship between affective commitment, unethical pro-organizational behavior (UPB), need for affiliation, and moral identity. Drawing from social exchange theory this research aims to enhance our understanding of the underlying mechanisms that lead employee to engage in UPB behavior in organizations. Collecting data from 210 employees in China, we found a positive relationship between affective commitment and UPB. Moreover, the need for affiliation is found to mediate the relationship between affective commitment and UPB, indicating that individuals with a strong need for affiliation are more likely to engage in unethical behaviors to promote their organization's interests. Additionally, moral identity is found to moderate the relationship between need for affiliation and UPB, suggesting that individuals with low moral identity are more likely to engage in UPB. These findings contribute to the existing literature by shedding light on the complex interplay between affective commitment, need for affiliation, moral identity, and unethical pro-organizational behavior. The study provides insights for organizations to understand the potential ethical implications of affective commitment and underscores the importance of fostering a strong moral identity among employees. Practitioners can utilize these findings to promote active ethical education within their organizations.