Dynamics of Task Conflict for Employees in the Virtual Workplace: Moderating Role of Relationship Conflict and Mediating Role of Team Mindfulness

Abstract

In the modern-day workplace, conflicts among team members are often observeddue to multiple reasons. Therefore, it is important to study the different aspects associatedwith conflict dynamics. For this research study, the sample was selected from organizationsenabled by information and communication technology, where employees are virtually connected. As a result, this research becomes particularly relevant in post-COVID-19 scenarios.SPSS version 23 was employed for moderation and mediation analyses using the Process Macro developed by Preacher and Hayes (version 3.3). Additionally, linear regression analysis was conducted. The statistical tests demonstrated a significant direct effect of task conflict on the outcome variables, as well as the indirect effects of moderating and mediatingvariables. The moderating variable of relationship conflict had a significant impact on bothtask conflict and team mindfulness. The direct association of task conflict was also assessedusing simple linear regression analysis in SPSS. This research explored a novel relationshipamong variables in virtual and digital organizations, where psychological contract breachessometimes also contribute to conflict dynamics. Thus, the study has investigated this phenomenon from the overarching theoretical perspective of mindfulness theory. Valuable recommendations have been provided for future researchers based on the insights derived from this research.