Counterproductive Work Behavior and Dark Creativity
Psychology Today
by Hansika Kapoor Ph.D.February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
In high-pressure workplaces, creativity can take a dark turn as employees adapt to survive under intense demands. The article explores how individuals often resort to "dark creativity," using their ingenuity not to benefit the organization but to navigate unclear or unfair conditions. This shift from constructive to self-interested problem-solving highlights a concerning trend where creativity is redirected to meet personal goals rather than organizational objectives.
Counterproductive work behaviors (CWBs) are often subtle and emerge as employees try to manage stress and deliver results in environments with unclear expectations. Examples include bending rules, selectively sharing information, or redefining tasks to suit personal convenience. These actions may begin innocently as coping mechanisms but can escalate into harmful behavior over time, undermining trust and distorting processes.
Understanding the psychology behind this shift is crucial for workplace health. Employees facing chronic stress or unfair treatment are more likely to engage in CWBs, which not only harm organizations but also take a toll on individual well-being. The article emphasizes that recognizing these behaviors early can help foster healthier work environments where creativity remains aligned with organizational values and supports employee well-being.
The article underscores the importance of addressing workplace pressures and fostering ethical clarity to prevent "dark creativity" from flourishing. By understanding how stress and ambiguity drive CWBs, organizations can create supportive environments that channel creativity toward positive outcomes rather than self-interested strategies. This not only
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Originally published on Psychology Today on 2/26/2026