Workplace deviant behavior (WDB) and workplace ostracism (WO) are increasingly recognized as harmful organizational phenomena that promote self-protective and self-serving behaviors. Despite their significance, there is limited research on the factors that influence the relationship between WO and WDB, including organizational conflict (OC), knowledge-sharing behavior (KSB), and emotional intelligence (EI). This study aims to develop and empirically test a moderated-mediation model examining how WO affects WDB through OC and KSB, while considering the moderating role of EI. Data were collected from 250 employees in public higher education institutions in Pakistan and analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The results demonstrate that WO significantly increases WDB, with OC and KSB serving as significant mediators in this relationship. Additionally, EI was found to moderate these effects. The findings provide both theoretical and practical implications for understanding the interplay of WO, OC, KSB, and EI, offering insights to mitigate the negative impacts of workplace ostracism and deviant behaviors.
