Influence of dysfunctional customer behavior on depersonalization and service sabotage in the service industry

Abstract

This empirical study examines the mediating role of depersonalization on the relationship between dysfunctional customer behavior and service sabotage. This study further identifies the mediation model is moderated by a caring climate. Participants comprised 81 service managers and 622 employees. Results showed that dysfunctional customer behavior increases depersonalization, which in turn leads to service sabotage, and a highly caring climate decreases the effect of dysfunctional customer behavior on service sabotage through depersonalization. Therefore, service organizations should establish a caring climate to mitigate the impact of dysfunctional customer behavior on service sabotage.