Keywords
social disconnectedness
work stress
conservation of resources theory
How to Cite
Abstract
Purpose – In recent years, workplace ostracism has attracted considerable interest in the field of organizational behavior, resulting in detrimental effects for both employees and organizations. While numerous studies have examined the relationship between workplace ostracism and stress, no empirical study has investigated the mediating role of social disconnectedness in this relationship. This study examines the relationship between workplace ostracism and work stress and the role of social disconnectedness as a mediator in this relationship.
Theoretical framework – This study evaluates the relationships between workplace ostracism, social disconnectedness, and work stress within the context of conservation of resources theory.
Design/methodology/approach – Data were voluntarily provided by 451 employees working in the Marmara region of Türkiye. The data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) implemented in Smart-PLS 4.
Findings – The findings revealed that workplace ostracism was positively related to social disconnectedness and work stress. Social disconnectedness was also positively related to work stress and mediated the relationship between workplace ostracism and work stress.
Practical and social implications of the research – Based on the study's findings, recommendations were made for managers and future researchers.
Originality/value – This study contributes to the literature by examining the mediating role of social disconnectedness in the relationship between workplace ostracism and work stress. This is a mechanism that has not been previously investigated. Additionally, the study extends the application of conservation of resources theory by providing a theoretical framework that explains the underlying mechanism linking workplace ostracism to work stress. These contributions offer new theoretical insights into the literature on workplace ostracism.
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