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Abstract
A growing body of research has demonstrated that mentoring relationships are marked by both positive and negative experiences. However, researchers have yet to assess the combined effect of positive and negative experiences on protg outcomes. This study attempted to bridge that gap by examining the impact of positive mentoring (i.e. career-related support) and negative mentoring (i.e. match within the dyad, distancing behavior, manipulative behavior, lack of mentor expertise, general dysfunctionality) on affective and behavioral outcomes. Hierarchical regression and dominance analysis revealed that negative mentoring experiences, specifically those that are maliciously motivated, are more predictive of protgs intentions to leave the relationship and general workplace stress than positive mentoring experiences. Implications for mentoring theory, future research, and applied practice are discussed.