Social Exchange Research Articles

Family Demands Diversity, Team Work–Family Conflict, and Team Effort: A Moderated Mediation Model

ABSTRACTMost research on family demands has been conducted at the individual level, showing that they can negatively influence employees' abilities to manage the work‐family interface. We challenge this existing paradigm by arguing that at the team level, family demands diversity (i.e., differences among members of the same team with respect to their family demands) can enable the entire team to better manage the work‐family interface. Drawing on the categorization‐elaboration model and social exchange theory, we found that family demands diversity was indirectly and positively related to team effort through team backup behavior and team work‐to‐family conflict, and these effects were stronger when team family identity was low and supervisor family support was high. We discuss the theoretical implications of our findings and the practical implications for HR policies and practices.

Cultural Dimensions of Trade Fairs: A Longitudinal Analysis of Urban Development and Destination Loyalty in Thessaloniki

Trade fairs are not only commercial platforms but also catalysts for urban development, city branding, and international engagement. This longitudinal study analyzes data from trade fair exhibitors from China, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Germany to examine how cultural differences influence their experiences, satisfaction, and destination loyalty within the urban landscape of Thessaloniki. By adopting Social Exchange Theory (S.E.T.) as a framework, this research applies a mixed-methods approach, combining surveys and in-depth interviews conducted over multiple years (2017–2024) at the 82nd, 86th, and 88th Thessaloniki International Fair (T.I.F.). The empirical material consists of 226 survey responses (116 from China, 44 from the UAE, and 84 from Germany) and 52 semi-structured interviews, analyzed using descriptive and non-parametric statistics, alongside thematic interpretation of qualitative data. Findings reveal distinct exhibitor expectations. These cultural distinctions shape their perceptions of Thessaloniki’s infrastructure, services, and overall urban experience, influencing their likelihood to revisit or recommend the city. This study underscores the long-term role of trade fairs in shaping urban economies and offers insights into how cities can leverage international exhibitions for sustainable urban growth. Policy recommendations highlight the need for tailored infrastructural improvements, strategic city branding initiatives, and cultural adaptations to enhance exhibitor engagement and maximize the economic impact of global events.

How buyer-driven knowledge transfer activities affect supplier transparency in the food supply chain

PurposeThe lack of transparent suppliers on the part of the buyer has caused significant reputational and economic losses for focal firms. Therefore, it is increasingly crucial to gain supplier support and response to enhance supply chain transparency in buyer-supplier relationships. However, the underlying impact mechanism of buyer-driven knowledge transfer activities on supplier transparency remains unclear. Thus, this study aims to utilize social exchange theory to reveal the impact mechanism of buyer-driven knowledge transfer activities on supplier transparency.Design/methodology/approachBased on structural equation modelling and regression analysis, data we collected from 408 food suppliers using a survey method to test the mediation model. FindingsThe findings of the study indicate that buyer-driven knowledge transfer activities not only have a direct positive impact on supplier transparency but also indirectly enhance it through supplier-perceived relationship transparency and the expected accessibility of buyer resources.Originality/valueThis study reveals the underlying impact mechanism of buyer-driven knowledge transfer activities on supplier transparency. It provides a new perspective from the supplier’s point of view to explore the impact mechanism of buyer behavior on supplier transparency. This not only contributes to a better understanding of the critical success path to enhance supplier transparency but also provides theoretical guidance for supply chain managers to enhance supply chain transparency and reduce the ripple effects of risks.

From theory to classroom: Innovation in teaching methods and faculty development in higher education

Higher education is at a pivotal moment, necessitating innovative teaching methods and robust faculty development to meet evolving global demands. This paper examines the integration of educational theories, such as Rational Choice Theory (RCT) and Social Exchange Theory (SET), into pedagogical practices to foster meaningful classroom change. By analyzing contemporary innovations like student-centered learning, flipped classrooms, and problem-based learning, the study highlights their potential to enhance student engagement and critical thinking. However, challenges such as institutional resistance, cultural barriers, and inadequate infrastructure, particularly in contexts like Vietnam, hinder widespread adoption. The paper underscores the critical role of theoretically grounded faculty development in bridging the gap between theory and practice, advocating for sustained, context-sensitive reforms to transform higher education. Findings suggest that aligning institutional incentives with educators' motivations and fostering collaborative academic cultures can drive sustainable pedagogical innovation.

Effect of Job Security on Unethical Pro-Organizational Behavior in Selected Commercial Banks in Abuja Metropolis, Nigeria: The Mediating Role of Obsessive Work Passion

Abstract: This study investigates the impact of job security on unethical pro-organizational behavior in selected commercial banks within the Abuja metropolis, Nigeria, with a focus on the mediating role of obsessive work passion. Drawing upon Social Exchange Theory and Self-Determination Theory, the research aims to understand how the perception of job security affects employees' passion for their work, which subsequently influences their ethical decision-making processes. Utilizing an explanatory research design, this study adopted a quantitative methodology to collect data via a cross-sectional descriptive survey. The sample comprised 354 employees from five selected banks in Abuja. To test the research hypotheses, Structural Equation Modeling Partial Least Squares (PLS) was employed using SMART PLS 4.1 software. The results indicate a significant negative relationship between job security and unethical pro-organizational behavior, suggesting that higher levels of perceived job security are associated with lower incidences of unethical actions intended to benefit the organization. Conversely, the study found no significant relationship between job security and obsessive work passion, implying that job security does not necessarily drive an unhealthy fixation on work. However, a significant correlation was identified between obsessive work passion and unethical pro-organizational behavior, indicating that a strong, albeit unhealthy, attachment to work can lead to unethical practices aimed at benefiting the organization. Additionally, it was revealed that obsessive work passion does not mediate the relationship between job security and unethical pro-organizational behavior. These findings underscore the vital role job security plays in shaping employees' attitudes and behaviors at work, highlighting the importance of fostering a secure work environment to promote ethical conduct and positive work passions.

BRUNO LEONI, JAMES M. BUCHANAN, AND THE QUEST FOR A THEORY OF COLLECTIVE ACTION

The essay offers a comparison of the political theories of Bruno Leoni and James M. Buchanan. The focus of the discussion is on the writings of the 1950s and early 1960s, in which both thinkers engage in the elaboration of a theory of collective action. After an initial section (§1) in which the history of the most important collaborations between the two thinkers is reconstructed, the discussion unfolds in three stages. In the first (§2) it is shown that, even before they met, Buchanan and Leoni had developed an identical individualistic conception of the social sciences. This is observed in detail by comparing two essays in which they both deal with the science of finance. Second, (§3) notes how two divergent views of politics emerge from this agreement. Although both focus on the differences between the market and democracy, Buchanan does not believe, as Leoni does, that politics is based exclusively on power asymmetries. This rift seems to be recomposed when Leoni, commenting on the first draft of The Calculus of Consent elaborates his own theory of power exchange. However, it will be shown (§4) that even with this modification the distance between Leoni and Buchanan remains, mainly due to the latter's adherence to the contractualist paradigm, which is unacceptable to Leonian evolutionism.

Bridging Urban Renewal and Cultural Regeneration: The Case of Meezan Chowk in Quetta, Pakistan

This study examines culture-led urban regeneration as a strategy for revitalizing Meezan Chowk, a historically significant yet deteriorating public space in Quetta, Pakistan. Once a central site of social and commercial exchange, the area suffered from infrastructural decline, overcrowding, and the erosion of its architectural identity. The research proposes a design intervention to restore the site’s heritage value while enhancing its functional and social relevance. A qualitative approach is adopted, incorporating surveys, focus group discussions, and site observations to assess user needs and spatial dynamics. A SWOT analysis serves as the analytical framework to identify the site’s internal strengths and weaknesses, as well as external opportunities and threats. By utilizing the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and OpenStreetMap data, further information can enhance understanding of the site’s urban morphology. The proposed design integrates vernacular elements, such as arched facades, shaded corridors, and communal courtyards, with contemporary features, including cafes, local artisan shops, and accessible public amenities.

The Impact of Workplace Resilience on Employee Engagement: The Mediating Role of Psychological Well-being

The present research examines whether the relationship between workplace resilience and employee engagement is mediated by psychological well-being, specifically within the IT sector. We also studied the role of demographic variables in determining employees' psychological well-being in the workplace setting. By investigating how resilience impacts engagement, the study seeks to provide empirical evidence that enhances theoretical and practical implications for improving workforce productivity and the well-being of employees. Employing a descriptive and quantitative cross-sectional survey design, data was collected through online surveys targeting 384 employees from India's Information Technology sector. The study focuses on how resilience may foster engagement with psychological well-being as a key mediator, by employing the Job Demands-Resources model and Social Exchange Theory. All the results show positive and statistically significant relationships; however, research findings show a partial mediation between workplace resilience and employee engagement.

Is performance appraisal to employee performance imperative? A bibliometric and systematic literature review

Performance appraisal assists employees in enhancing personal capabilities aligned with personal objectives and organisational goals. The paper seeks to provide comprehensive guidelines to academicians, policymakers, and organisations for effectively utilising performance appraisal to align employee performance with organisational goals. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework was followed when synthesising existing studies investigating the linkage between performance appraisal and employee performance. The Scopus database was the primary source of journal articles. A holistic keyword search identified 6,675 articles, which were filtered through inclusion and exclusion criteria. Consequently, 297 relevant articles were gathered. Equity theory, expectancy theory, and social exchange theory were primarily employed in the reviewed articles. Quantitative methodologies were the most popular approach, followed by mixed methods. Statistical analysis techniques, such as structural equation modelling and regression, also gained popularity. Furthermore, the reviewed articles encompassed various populations, sectors, and sample sizes when assessing the general applicability of performance appraisal while elucidating sector-specific challenges. This review contributed to the existing literature and suggested future directions for understanding performance appraisal and employee performance. The study recommended employing customised approaches, incorporating green HRM practices, and utilising innovative technologies to develop a more effective employee performance appraisal framework.

A STRUCTURAL EQUATION MODEL ON ORGANIZATIONAL CITIZENSHIP BEHAVIOR OF SCHOOL PRINCIPALS IN THE DAVAO REGION

This research utilized Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) in building and testing a model describing the Organizational Citizenship Behavior (OCB) of the Davao Region's public school principals based on the theoretical constructs of Social Exchange Theory, Transformational Leadership Theory, and Self-Efficacy Theory. These theories all together emphasize the ways in which mutual relationships, inspirational leadership, and self-efficacy influence discretionary and prosocial workplace behavior. The research explored how empowerment, school culture, and leadership practices lead to OCB, with information gathered from 400 principals using a validated survey tool administered via proportionate stratified random sampling from 11 Schools Division Offices, both through online and printed media. Findings indicated uniformly high scores on leadership practices, empowerment, and school culture. The best-fitting structural model verified principals perceived themselves to be empowered, exercise transformational leadership, and create a supportive school culture, they were more likely to extend beyond formal job requirements to the advantage of the school community. These conclusions highlighted the pivotal role that leadership development, empowerment, and school culture have in building OCB. Thus, it is suggested that school policy embeds continued leadership development, empowerment, and culture-building programs to facilitate school principals in upholding high levels of drive, cooperation, and discretionary effort. Keywords: Empowerment, Leadership Practices, School Culture, Organizational Citizenship Behavior (OCB), Structural Equation Model (SEM), Philippines.

The Effect of Job Satisfaction on Organizational Citizenship Behavior With Organizational Commitment as A Mediating Variable (A Study on Employees of Kuta I Public Health Center)

Organizational Citizenship Behavior (OCB) refers to employees' discretionary actions that exceed their formal job responsibilities, often driven by a sense of personal responsibility and fulfillment in contributing to the organization. Individuals displaying OCB typically exhibit constructive behaviors, such as complying with organizational rules, assisting coworkers, and managing their time efficiently. This research investigates the influence of job satisfaction on OCB, with organizational commitment acting as a mediating variable. The study was conducted at Puskesmas Kuta I, involving 92 employees chosen through a saturated sampling technique. Data were gathered using a survey method, employing questionnaires as the primary instrument. The analysis was performed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with the Partial Least Square (PLS) approach. The findings reveal that job satisfaction positively influences OCB, enhances organizational commitment, and that organizational commitment itself positively impacts OCB. Furthermore, job satisfaction indirectly affects OCB through its influence on organizational commitment. The study contributes theoretically to the Social Exchange Theory and offers practical recommendations for organizations concerning the enhancement of OCB.

The overlooked and hidden consequences of inequitable reviews in home-sharing services

Purpose Online marketplace platforms, such as Airbnb, depend on a symmetrical (or two-sided) review system, where hosts and guests can help each other build reputations as trustworthy and desirable exchange partners. This study aims to explore the hidden consequences of the exchange review system when one partner submits a relatively minimal review, leading to an unequal review effort exchange. Design/methodology/approach Two experiments were conducted to manipulate the amount of post-exchange review effort respondents provided compared to the amount they received from their exchange partner. Student and general market panel data from Cloud Research were used. Findings Receiving an unequal review effort exchange can cause perceived inequity, leading to increased cognitive dissonance. This results in unfavorable outcomes, including negative word-of-mouth (NWOM), a lower likelihood of engaging with the exchange partner in the future, a lower probability of engaging in the sharing economy and a greater likelihood of spending less effort on future reviews. Thus, both the exchange partners (hosts and guests) and the home-sharing platform are affected. Trait reciprocity moderates the effect. Practical implications Failure to participate adequately in this secondary social exchange may cause hidden negative outcomes for the exchange partners and the online marketplace platforms that facilitate the connection. Originality/value While others have investigated how guests use reviews to make decisions, this research fills a gap in the literature by exploring how exchange partners respond to receiving an unequal review effort exchange to affect important outcome variables.

Sports as service: customer engagement in participant sports through the lens of marathons

PurposeDespite the growing recognition of customer engagement in academia and industry, its application in participant sports remains significantly underdeveloped, especially when contrasted against the extensive attention dedicated to spectator sports. To address this gap, this study explores the antecedents, dimensions, and outcomes of customer engagement in participant sports.Design/methodology/approachPartial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was conducted on online survey responses from 327 physical and virtual marathon participants.FindingsFindings reveal that (1) challenge, enjoyment, mastery, socialization, status, weight, health and fitness, as well as mental wellbeing serve as key motivators driving customer engagement in participant sports, and that (2) engagement during participation is cognitive, emotional, and behavioral, with (3) word-of-mouth and re-participation intention emerging as resultant outcomes.Practical implicationsOrganizers of participant sports (e.g. marathon events) should leverage the identified motivational factors in their marketing initiatives and strive to create an environment conducive to heightened cognitive, emotional, and behavioral engagement in order to nurture loyalty among customers of participant sports. Specifically, organizers who emphasize enjoyment, personal growth, and wellbeing can foster deeper customer loyalty while delivering substantial societal benefits, as these initiatives promote physical activity and community interaction, support public health, strengthen community bonds, and enhance social integration, thereby advancing both organizational success and societal wellbeing.Originality/valueNovelty of study lies in conceptualizing customer engagement in participant sports by highlighting the instrumental role of intrinsic and extrinsic (external regulation, identified regulation, and introjected regulation) motivation in fostering engagement (cognitive, emotional, behavioral) and the consequential impact of such engagement on loyalty (word-of-mouth and re-participation), as grounded in self-determination theory and social exchange theory.

Influence of Inclusive Leadership on Innovation among Employees in Tech Startups in Kenya

Purpose: The purpose of this article was to influence of inclusive leadership on innovation among employees in tech startups in Kenya. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: ​ Inclusive leadership in Kenyan tech startups boosts employee innovation by fostering psychological safety, open communication, and team collaboration. It encourages idea-sharing, reduces fear of failure, and enhances creativity. Startups with inclusive leaders show higher adaptability and continuous innovation. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social exchange theory, transformational leadership theory & psychological safety theory may be used to anchor future studies on influence of inclusive leadership on innovation among employees in tech startups in Kenya. For tech startups, cultivating inclusive leadership skills among founders and managers is critical to unlocking the full innovative potential of their teams. Policymakers have a vital role in encouraging tech startups to embrace inclusive leadership by creating supportive policies and incentives.

Impact of felt obligation and perceived mutual reciprocity on support between mothers and their adult children

Support is a vital resource at every stage of development throughout the lifespan. In the mother-child relationship, the exchange of support is subject to change in relation to the tasks and framework conditions of the current phase of life. While values and norms typically include social expectations, attitudes summarize individual thoughts or feelings. During young adulthood and midlife, attitudes are particularly important for the mutual support between mothers and their adult children when there are no practical framework conditions, such as care needs, that necessitate support. This study uses social exchange theory to examine the mediating role of felt obligation and perceived mutual reciprocity as important attitudes in the well-known relation between mothers and their adult children receiving and giving support. The sample consisted of 598 German adults (aged 20–49, 55.2% female) and 577 mothers (aged 40–87) of these adults; both perspectives were taken into account. The results from the parallel mediation analyses, in which instrumental and emotional support were considered separately, showed a mediating effect of felt obligation on the instrumental support of adult children for their mothers. The emotional support received and given by the adults to their mothers was mediated by felt obligation and perceived mutual reciprocity. The received and given instrumental and emotional support of the mothers to their adult children was mediated by perceived mutual reciprocity. The relevance of the adults' and mothers' different attitudes regarding support later in life is discussed.

Amotivation of knowledge management systems use: the role of authoritarian leadership

PurposeA common fallacy of knowledge management systems (KMSs) in practice is their low use frequency. Therefore, the purpose of the study is to investigate the amotivation (the state of lacking the intention to act) to use a KMS.Design/methodology/approachBased on the social exchange theory and the social cognitive theory, we examine how knowledge self-efficacy, perceived alternatives, and authoritarian leadership influence amotivation. We conducted a survey in a large petrochemical enterprise in western China 3 months after the company had implemented a KMS. Employees who had never logged in to the KMS since its establishment were the subjects of the survey.FindingsThe results indicated that knowledge self-efficacy is negatively related to amotivation to use the KMS whereas perceived alternatives are positively related to amotivation to use the KMS. In addition, there is a U-shaped relationship between authoritarian leadership and amotivation to use the KMS. As perceived authoritarian leadership increases, the amotivation to use the KMS decreases initially. However, a high level of perceived authoritarian leadership can increase amotivation to use the KMS. In addition, we found that the effect of knowledge self-efficacy is suppressed (weakened) as authoritarian leadership increases.Originality/valueThis study investigated an important concept of information system use amotivation at both the individual and group levels. Amotivation is not entirely equivalent to the opposite of motivation. However, KMS studies largely neglected this important concept. The curvilinear and moderating effect of authoritarian leadership on KMS use is also seldom investigated in the literature.

Psychological empowerment and place identity: enhancing resident support for sustainable tourism in a highland retreat, Vietnam

PurposeThis study examines the role of psychological empowerment in fostering resident support for tourism in Da Lat, Vietnam. It investigates how psychological empowerment mediates the relationship between place identity and residents’ attitudes, offering new insights into community engagement in sustainable tourism development.Design/methodology/approachGrounded in place identity, psychological empowerment, and social exchange theories, the research employs Structural Equation Modeling with Smart-PLS to examine how psychological empowerment enhances resident support for tourism in Da Lat, Vietnam.FindingsThe study finds that psychological empowerment fully mediates the relationship between residents’ place identity and their support for tourism. Among place identity dimensions, place distinctiveness plays a stronger role, while place-based self-esteem is less influential. Although some residents express moderate concerns about tourism’s impact on community character, psychological empowerment helps mitigate these perceptions and fosters supportive attitudes.Practical implicationsThe findings suggest that tourism planners and policymakers can enhance resident support by fostering psychological empowerment through participatory planning, cultural recognition, and inclusive engagement that gives residents a meaningful voice in tourism development.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the literature by demonstrating that the direct relationship between place identity and tourism support is insignificant; psychological empowerment fully mediates this connection. This insight highlights the critical role of psychological factors in shaping resident support for tourism, offering a deeper understanding of how empowerment can transform community attitudes. By advancing the theoretical framework linking place identity, psychological empowerment, and tourism support, the study offers practical insights for fostering resilient, sustainable tourism development.

Exploring green purchase behavior in online agricultural markets: a multi-phase consumer decision model

PurposeThis study aims to explore consumer behavior in terms of pre-, actual, and post-purchase behavior of green agricultural food products based on planned behavior and social exchange theory.Design/methodology/approachA longitudinal study design was employed, utilizing a structured questionnaire to collect data from the same 473 respondents across different phases.FindingsThe findings reveal that quality factors significantly influence consumer purchase behavior. Additionally, environmental and societal factors significantly enhance consumer behavior in online shopping for these products. Notably, consumer complaints have an inverse relationship with consumer satisfaction and loyalty. Meanwhile, emotional intensity was identified as a moderator, identifying the role these relationships play in the online shopping context of agricultural products.Originality/valuePractically, the research can guide businesses in developing marketing strategies that align with consumers’ behavior toward green products.

Impact of ethics and etiquette in a dynamic business relationship across business lifecycles

PurposeIn today’s complex economic environment, enterprise relationships are volatile and competitive. Globally, business ethics and etiquette are crucial for fostering relationships and long-term success. This study explores the impact of business ethics and etiquette on inter-firm trust, commitment, and reciprocity at different business lifecycles.Design/methodology/approachA total of 3,860 responses from 92 countries were collected via an online survey. Through confirmatory factor analyses, two distinct business ethics factors and seven business etiquette factors were identified. Multiple regression analyses further revealed that these factors significantly impact inter-firm relationships.FindingsThe study concludes that throughout the business relationship lifecycle, business ethics and etiquette positively affect general reciprocity. At the maintenance stage, business ethics is an important factor affecting inter-firm relationships however, its significance wanes at the dissolution stage.Research limitations/implicationsThis study concludes the general state of ethics in business relationships. However, there are still shortcomings in the analysis of business ethics in specific countries.Practical implicationsThe study offers enterprises practical advice on establishing and preserving healthy business relationships by adhering to ethics and etiquette throughout various stages.Originality/valueThis study combines stakeholder theory and social exchange theory, applying them to the research of business relationships. Furthermore, this study delves into the varying importance of ethics and etiquette across the four business life cycle stages, offering a fresh perspective and empirical evidence for examining inter-enterprise relationships.

Corporate Social Responsibility as a Driver of Business Innovation: The Mediating Role of Corporate Reputation on Employee Performance in the Hospitality Sector

In response to escalating societal and environmental expectations, corporate social responsibility (CSR) has evolved into a strategic imperative rather than a voluntary or peripheral activity. This study investigates the effect of employees’ CSR perceptions on job performance, with corporate reputation (CR) examined as a mediating variable. Drawing on Social Identity and Social Exchange Theories, the research explores how CSR, as an element of business innovation and sustainable organizational practices, fosters internal stakeholder engagement and performance enhancement. Data were collected from five-star hotel employees in İstanbul/Türkiye, a service sector context where customer satisfaction is highly dependent on frontline employee behavior. Using PROCESS Macro for SPSS 27, the findings reveal that CSR perceptions significantly and positively influence employee performance both directly and indirectly through the enhancement of CR. This mediating effect underscores the role of CSR not only as an ethical framework but also as an internal mechanism that strengthens employee commitment and output. The study contributes to CSR and the organizational behavior literature by empirically validating that internal CSR perceptions shape strategic outcomes such as employee performance, especially within high-contact service environments. Theoretical implications emphasize CSR’s integrative function in reputation-building and performance systems, while practical insights recommend embedding socially responsible practices into HR and internal communication strategies to achieve sustainable outcomes and societal well-being. These findings offer meaningful contributions to the scope of business innovation by linking CSR with strategic performance indicators in labor-intensive industries.