How workplace bullying affects nurses’ well-being? The roles of burnout and passive avoidant leadership

What is it about?

Purpose – Narrowing the literary gaps, this study has investigated individual-related consequences of workplace bullying. Specifically, the study examined the mediating role of burnout between workplace bullying and well-being. Further, passive avoidant leadership is examined as a conditional variable between workplace bullying and burnout. Design/methodology/approach – The study collected data from 314 nurses working in various hospitals through a questionnaire-based survey using Google Form in two waves. Findings – Structural equation modeling confirmed the negative effect of workplace bullying on nurses’ well-being; whereas, burnout mediate this relationship. In addition, passive avoidant leadership was identified as a conditional variable that strengthens the positive association between workplace bullying and burnout. Research limitations/implications – Although data for the study was collected in two waves, still cross-sectional design limits causality. Originality/value – Studies on workplace bullying in high-power distance cultures are scant. Therefore, drawing upon conservation of resource theory, this is the first study that has investigated the moderating role of passive avoidant leadership on the association between workplace bullying and burnout. Practical Implications – The study suggests management focus on developing and implementing counter-bullying rules to avoid the adverse consequences of workplace bullying (e.g., capital loss, recruitment costs, burnout, well-being etc.). In addition, leaders/supervisors must be trained to fulfill their responsibilities to reduce negative consequences.

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