Counterproductive use of technology at work: Information & communications technologies and cyberdeviancy

The misuse of information and communications technology (ICTs) in the workplace is a growing problem that is expected to continue to trend upward. The consequences of this form of behaviour range from minor outcomes with little impact, to more serious outcomes with significant negative impacts to individuals, groups, and even for entire organizations. Research into technologically mediated counterproductive behaviour has lagged behind the phenomena, remains limited in scope, and is conducted in disciplinary and theoretical isolation. Conceptual clarity and theoretical synthesis are viewed as critical steps for enabling a strong program of research into this new counterproductive domain. This article proposes a potential approach for fostering conceptual clarity and identifies the necessity for a theoretical model to facilitate future investigation.