Effect of Job Security on Unethical Pro-Organizational Behavior in Selected Commercial Banks in Abuja Metropolis, Nigeria: The Mediating Role of Obsessive Work Passion

Abstract: This study investigates the impact of job security on unethical pro-organizational behavior in selected commercial banks within the Abuja metropolis, Nigeria, with a focus on the mediating role of obsessive work passion. Drawing upon Social Exchange Theory and Self-Determination Theory, the research aims to understand how the perception of job security affects employees' passion for their work, which subsequently influences their ethical decision-making processes. Utilizing an explanatory research design, this study adopted a quantitative methodology to collect data via a cross-sectional descriptive survey. The sample comprised 354 employees from five selected banks in Abuja. To test the research hypotheses, Structural Equation Modeling Partial Least Squares (PLS) was employed using SMART PLS 4.1 software. The results indicate a significant negative relationship between job security and unethical pro-organizational behavior, suggesting that higher levels of perceived job security are associated with lower incidences of unethical actions intended to benefit the organization. Conversely, the study found no significant relationship between job security and obsessive work passion, implying that job security does not necessarily drive an unhealthy fixation on work. However, a significant correlation was identified between obsessive work passion and unethical pro-organizational behavior, indicating that a strong, albeit unhealthy, attachment to work can lead to unethical practices aimed at benefiting the organization. Additionally, it was revealed that obsessive work passion does not mediate the relationship between job security and unethical pro-organizational behavior. These findings underscore the vital role job security plays in shaping employees' attitudes and behaviors at work, highlighting the importance of fostering a secure work environment to promote ethical conduct and positive work passions.