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This paper introduces an organizing framework that elaborates the theoretical underpinnings of negative workplace behavior (NWB), while also helping to clarify the mechanisms by which employees direct their NWB toward specific targets. In discussing why people are motivated to commit NWB, we examine the theories that have been used to explain why perceptions of injustice or mistreatment lead to attributions of accountability and target-specific forms of NWB. We also explore how individual characteristics serve as moderators in this framework by reviewing recent findings and suggesting potential moderators for future study. In addition, we discuss the advantages of including opportunity as a moderator of these relationships and suggest avenues for future research relating to the multifoci perspective and NWB.