Toward a paradox of resources: the role of supportive climate and self-efficacy in the relationship between cynicism and intellectual engagement

BackgroundResearch interest in intellectual engagement is increasing. The objective of this study was to examine the influence of cynicism on intellectual engagement through the mediation of supportive climate and the moderation of self-efficacy.MethodsThe sample consisted of 336 Colombian workers who completed the MBI, the FOCUS-93, the ISA Engagement Scale, and the IPSICAP-24. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and regression analysis with PROCESS Model 7.ResultsThe indirect effect of cynicism on intellectual engagement through supportive climate was statistically significant. Theps moderated mediation index was significant (index = −0.020, 95% CI [−0.047, −0.002]), confirming that the intensity of the indirect effect of cynicism on intellectual engagement through supportive climate depends on the levels of self-efficacy.ConclusionAs self-efficacy increases, the effect of cynicism on intellectual engagement through perceived supportive climate becomes more negative. This finding offers a critical perspective on psychological resources, exploratorily framed within what has been referred to as “the resources paradox”. The implications of these findings are discussed within the framework of organizational psychology.