Abstract
Workplace hazing remains a critical concern in the hospitality sector, known for its high-pressure environments and hierarchical dynamics. Drawing on transactional stress theory, this study explores the intricate relationships between workplace hazing, emotional exhaustion, and deviant behavior, with a focus on the moderating roles of hope and optimism. The research aims to examine how these psychological factors buffer the negative impacts of workplace hazing on employee behavior. Using a quantitative approach, data were collected from 494 valid responses comprising employees and supervisors from four- and five-star hotels in Aqaba, Amman, and Petra, Jordan. Convenience sampling was employed, and the data were analyzed using SPSS 29 and AMOS 26. The findings reveal that workplace hazing significantly predicts emotional exhaustion and deviant behavior, with emotional exhaustion mediating this relationship. Hope and optimism were found to moderate these effects, suggesting employees who maintain an optimistic outlook are better equipped to handle stress, which, in turn, reinforces their positive mindset, ultimately fostering healthier workplace cultures. The study offers both theoretical and practical implications. Theoretically, it extends the transaction theory of stress by integrating emotional exhaustion and deviant behavior. Practically, it suggests that hospitality organizations should focus on mitigating hazing practices, addressing emotional exhaustion through support mechanisms, and fostering positive psychological traits like hope and optimism to enhance employee well-being and minimize deviant behavior.