In the context of diagnosing psychological disorders, which group of employees is most likely to engage in counterproductive workplace behaviors?

• A. Employees who report high job satisfaction and strong social support
• B. Employees who have recently received recognition for outstanding work
• C. Employees experiencing high levels of job-related stress and symptoms of depression
• D. Employees with consistent attendance and positive performance reviews

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of counterproductive workplace behaviors (CWBs), which are actions by employees that harm the organization or its members, such as absenteeism, sabotage, or reduced effort.
2. Step 2: Recognize that psychological factors like job-related stress and symptoms of depression can negatively impact an employee's motivation, emotional regulation, and decision-making, increasing the likelihood of engaging in CWBs.
3. Step 3: Compare the groups: employees with high job satisfaction and social support typically have protective factors against CWBs; those recently recognized or with positive reviews are generally motivated and less likely to engage in harmful behaviors.
4. Step 4: Identify that employees experiencing high levels of job-related stress and depression symptoms are more vulnerable to negative emotions and impaired functioning, which research links to higher rates of CWBs.
5. Step 5: Conclude that among the given groups, employees with high stress and depression symptoms are most likely to engage in counterproductive workplace behaviors due to the psychological strain affecting their work conduct.