Guilt, shame, fear and self-doubt typically are associated with negative outcomes, especially in the workplace. But Rebecca Schaumberg , Wharton professor of operations, information and decisions, takes a different view. In her research, Schaumberg focuses on how these seemingly unproductive traits can be used to enhance job performance and leadership. She spoke to Knowledge at Wharton about some of the surprising findings in her studies and their implications.

An edited transcript of the conversation follows.

Knowledge at Wharton: Tell us about your primary research focuses.

Rebecca Schaumberg: At a broad level, I’ve been interested in the individual characteristics or employee traits that promote positive employee outcomes.…