The moderating role of perceived organisational support in the relationship between workplace bullying and turnover intention across sectors in South Africa
Published: 11 November 2011
Abstract
Research purpose: To investigate the role of POS as moderator in the relationship between workplace bullying and turnover intention across sectors in South Africa.
Motivation for the study: Workplace bullying is a worldwide concern and it is unclear whether perceived organisational support moderates the relationship between workplace bullying and turnover intention.
Research design, approach and method: A cross-sectional survey approach with a quantitative research design was used (N = 13 911). The South African Employee Health and Wellness Survey (SAEHWS) was administered to explore the experiences of bullying behaviour, POS and turnover intention.
Main findings: Bullying by superiors is more prevalent than bullying by colleagues. A positive relationship exists between workplace bullying and turnover intention. Role clarity, participation in decision-making and supervisory relationship moderates the relationship between bullying by superiors and turnover intention.
Practical/managerial implications: This study creates an awareness of the prevalence of workplace bullying in the South African context so that sufficient counteraction can be encouraged.
Contribution/value-add: This study contributes to the limited research regarding workplace bullying in the South African context by quantifying the relationships between workplace bullying POS and turnover intention.
Author affiliations
Crizelle Els, Northwest-University, South Africa
Ian Rothmann (Jr), Business Intelligence, Afriforte (Pty) Ltd., South Africa