Witnessed incivility: consequences and moderating factors

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between witnessed incivility and workplace outcomes (emotional exhaustion, organizational citizenship behavior, and work engagement) by drawing on the Conservation Resource Theory (COR) and the Job Demands-Resources Theory (JD-R Model). Furthermore, this study sheds light on mindfulness as a moderating factor and the impact of power distance on how witnessed incivility is perceived and interpreted. Data was collected using a time-lagged survey design. A total of 202 surveys were completed amongst workers and supervisors across various industries in Nigeria and Canada. Findings from the study revealed that there was a significant relationship between witnessed incivility and two workplace outcomes (emotional exhaustion and OCB-O). While power distance did not moderate the relationship between witnessed incivility and workplace outcomes, it was observed that country as a moderator, moderated the relationship between witnessed incivility and OCB-O for participants in Nigeria. Also, mindfulness moderated the relationship between witnessed incivility and emotional exhaustion. More studies are required for a broader insight into the witnessed incivility literature.