Journal: Heliyon
Link: https://doi.org/10.1080/23311975.2024.2325337
Blog Summary
A groundbreaking study by a team of esteemed researchers from the Superior University has shed light on a pressing issue in workplace dynamics, particularly within the healthcare sector. Led by PhD student Muhammad Rizwan Sabir, the research was co-authored by an exceptional lineup: Prof. Dr. Abdul Rehman, Chairman of the Superior Group, Prof. Dr. Sumaira Rehman, Rector of Superior University, and distinguished faculty members Dr. Muhammad Zia Aslam and Dr. Muhammad Bilal Majid from the Chaudhry Abdul Rehman Business School (CARBS). Their work, titled “Does workplace ostracism lead to counterproductive work behavior in healthcare employees: the role of transactional and relational psychological contract breach,” explores the profound effects of workplace exclusion on employee behavior and organizational performance.
Using a robust quantitative approach, the study surveyed 332 healthcare professionals in Pakistan. The findings paint a stark picture: workplace ostracism not only drains employees emotionally and psychologically but also significantly contributes to counterproductive work behaviors (CWB), such as reduced productivity and workplace disruptions. The research revealed that these behaviors are often fueled by breaches in the relational psychological contract—employees’ expectations of trust, fairness, and support from their organizations. Interestingly, breaches in transactional contracts, related to tangible rewards and job security, were found to play a less significant mediating role.
The research team employed Smart-PLS for data analysis, uncovering crucial insights into the mechanisms of workplace ostracism and its impact. The study underscores the urgent need for organizations, especially in the healthcare sector, to create inclusive and supportive environments to curb the damaging effects of exclusionary practices.
This paper holds immense value for both theory and practice. For managers and policymakers, it serves as a call to action to foster respectful and collaborative work cultures, ensuring that employees feel valued and engaged. For researchers, it provides a rich foundation for further exploration into the psychological intricacies of workplace relationships.
With the involvement of visionary leaders like Prof. Dr. Abdul Rehman and Prof. Dr. Sumaira Rehman, alongside accomplished scholars from CARBS, this study is a testament to Superior University’s commitment to advancing impactful research that addresses real-world challenges. It’s more than a paper—it’s a blueprint for building healthier, more productive workplaces in the healthcare sector and beyond.
Authors:
- Mr. Muhammad Rizwan Sabir, Superior University, Lahore, Pakistan
- Dr. Muhammad Bilal Majid, Superior University, Lahore, Pakistan
- Dr. Muhammad Zia Aslam, Superior University, Lahore, Pakistan
- Prof. Dr. Abdul Rehman, Superior University, Lahore, Pakistan
- Prof. Dr. Sumaira Rehman, Superior University, Lahore, Pakistan