Bullying at Workplace and Innovative Work Behavior: Empirical Testing of an Integrative Model

Abstract

Purpose – Using the theory of conservation of resource (COR), current research investigates direct and indirect effects of bullying at workplace on innovative work behavior (IWB) in higher educational sector of Pakistan. In specific, current study examines the influence of workplace bullying on IWB through the mediation of knowledge hiding and psychological safety as a boundary condition.

Methodology – A self-administered survey design was used to have data from 306 faculty members of the HEIs. Further, SPSS 29.0 and SmartPLS 4.1.0.8 software were used to analyze the data.

Findings – Empirical findings highlighted a negative association between workplace bullying and IWB. Further, resulted revealed a positive relationship between workplace bullying and knowledge hiding. Furthermore, the mediation effect of knowledge hiding was also empirically supported.

Implications – Current study adds to the extant literature around workplace bullying and IWB. It also offers invaluable insights for HEIs on fostering an environment that promotes innovation through reducing workplace bullying and knowledge hiding.

Originality/value – Several factors make this study distinct. First, this study investigated the influence of workplace bullying on the IWB. Second, this research work delved into the mediating role of knowledge hiding between workplace bullying and IWB, as well it also studied the moderating role of psychological safety in this relationship. Third, this is the first study of its kind to be conducted in the HEIs in the twin cities of Pakistan.