Presenteeism and Emotional Exhaustion as Mechanisms Linking Abusive Leadership to Non-Green Behavior in Hotel Enterprises: The Buffering Role of Co-Worker Support

Abstract

This study examines how abusive leadership influences non-green behavior among employees in five-star hotels in Egypt, drawing on Conservation of Resources (COR) theory and the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model. Using survey data collected from 400 full-time hotel employees, the study investigates the mediating roles of emotional exhaustion and presenteeism, as well as the moderating role of perceived co-worker support. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed to test the proposed relationships. The results indicate that abusive leadership increases emotional exhaustion and presenteeism, both of which contribute to higher levels of non-green behavior. Emotional exhaustion mediates the relationship between abusive leadership and non-green behavior, while presenteeism partially mediates the link between abusive leadership and emotional exhaustion. Additionally, perceived co-worker support buffers the negative effect of presenteeism on emotional exhaustion. By integrating COR and JD-R perspectives, this study advances understanding of the psychological mechanisms through which abusive leadership undermines environmentally responsible behavior. The findings offer practical insights for hospitality managers seeking to promote employee well-being and sustainability in high-pressure service environments.