Title: Self-efficacy as the saviour: defending psychological well-being against the destructive power of social undermining

Authors: Burcu Tosun; Gamze Güner Kibaroğlu; Hamdullah Nejat Basim

Addresses: Faculty of Business Administration, Department of Business Administration, Atılım University, Türkiye ' Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences, Department of Business Administration, Baskent University, Türkiye ' Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences, Department of Business Administration, Baskent University, Türkiye

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.

Keywords: psychological well-being; self-efficacy; social undermining; social cognitive theory; self-efficacy theory; stress process theory; job satisfaction; job demands-resources model; work-related depression; positive emotions work engagement.

DOI: 10.1504/MEJM.2026.152269

Middle East Journal of Management, 2026 Vol.13 No.2, pp.137 - 159

Received: 28 Aug 2024
Accepted: 25 Dec 2024
Published online: 13 Mar 2026 *

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