Does gratuitous behaviour promote workplace nonviolence? Exploring the mediating role of constructive deviance

Abstract

Purpose

This study evaluates gratitude's role in developing nonviolent work behaviour. It also examines the mediating effect of constructive deviance in the relationship between gratitude and nonviolent work behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on responses from 424 working professionals engaged in different Indian industries: banks, insurance, IT, manufacturing, hotel and software. The respondents were approached both physically and electronically using convenience sampling. Also, the data were collected in three phases four months apart, utilizing the benefits of a repeated cross-sectional research design. Structural equation modelling examines the relationship between gratitude and nonviolent work behaviour. Model fit indices are also assessed for two models (without a mediator and with a mediator). Total, direct and indirect effects are calculated using AMOS 21 to study the mediating effect of constructive deviance.

Findings

Findings reveal that all three dimensions of gratitude (lack of sense of deprivation, simple appreciation and appreciation for others) are positively associated with nonviolent work behaviour. The results also confirm the mediating effect of constructive deviance.

Originality/value

This is one of the pioneer studies exploring gratitude's role in ensuring nonviolent work behaviour.

Citation

Garg, N. and Sharma, N. (2023), "Does gratuitous behaviour promote workplace nonviolence? Exploring the mediating role of constructive deviance", International Journal of Emerging Markets, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJOEM-07-2022-1129