Work

Mitigating the toxic experience of knowledge theft: An exploration of interventions

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Drawing on research on toxic emotions and toxic climates, we investigate the emotional consequences of knowledge theft—when a colleague intentionally takes credit for our work or ideas. In two experimental studies, we highlight the central role of perceived loss in the relationship between the experience of knowledge theft and the anger it elicits in victims. Furthermore, we propose and evaluate two practical interventions that leaders and colleagues can implement to mitigate the toxic emotional effects of knowledge theft and to restore what was lost. Our experimental results demonstrate that when leaders and colleagues amplify rightful ownership, knowledge theft victims' anger is reduced as ownership is restored. By implementing preventative measures that acknowledge and protect idea ownership, organizations can interrupt the toxicity of knowledge theft and mitigate its detrimental consequences on victims.

Source: Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology

DOI: 10.1111/joop.70093

Authors: David Zweig, Kristyn A. Scott, Alycia Damp, Tiffany Paquin

Institutions: University of Toronto Scarborough, Toronto Metropolitan University

Language: English

Topic: Job Satisfaction and Organizational Behavior

Subfield: Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,840