# Clusters of Counterproductive Behavior and Personality Profiles How personality traits influence unproductive behaviors in the workplace - **Source:** [Journal of Applied Psychology](https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals/apl) - **Published:** 2026-02-19 - **Topic:** [Leadership](https://brifing.si/c/leadership) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/db2d655d-2db1-4ccd-aea0-8d61c24f4124 ## Roots of Counterproductive Behavior The research reveals that unproductive actions such as aggression, theft, and dishonesty in the workplace are linked to personality traits. The Big Five personality traits play a significant role in predicting these behaviors. ## Personality and Balance According to cybernetic personality theory, imbalances in personality (mismatch between homeostasis and change processes) can lead to general counterproductive behavior. This negatively affects employee performance and workplace harmony. ## Meta-Analysis Findings A meta-analysis covering 46 articles and over 850,000 participants shows a strong correlation between unproductive behaviors and personality profiles. Certain personality configurations are particularly critical in predicting these behaviors. ## Personality Profiles and Clusters The study identified two main clusters and four subclusters associated with counterproductive behavior. These clusters parallel the externalizing superspectrum of psychopathology, suggesting a potential general classification system. ## Practical Implications The findings highlight the importance of personality assessments in hiring processes. Identifying the right personality profiles can be effective in preventing unproductive behaviors and enhancing workplace harmony. ## Future Research The study indicates that the relationship between personality and counterproductive behavior needs deeper exploration. Future research could focus on developing strategies to prevent these behaviors. ## Sources covering this story - http://doi.org/10.1037/apl0001344 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._