Age and Workplace Deviance: A Meta-Analytic Test and a Trait-Based Examination of Why Older Employees Engage in Less Workplace Deviance

Abstract In the current meta-analysis, we examine relation between age and workplace deviance, find a small but significant negative correlation (ρ¯ = −.124, k 198). More importantly, test several trait-based mechanisms to help explain this relation. Specifically, based on neo-socioanalytical model of personality change, hypothesized that those Big Five traits change with age, HEXACO honesty–humility, trait affect mediate These hypotheses were supported, as conscientiousness, agreeableness, neuroticism, well honesty–humility simultaneously mediated deviance. findings highlight important underlying for suggest opportunities organizations reduce occurrence Further theoretical practical implications limitations future research ideas are discussed.