The mediation role of intention in knowledge sharing behavior

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the mediation role of behavioral intention in the relationship between attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control and knowledge sharing behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted a cross-sectional design to collect data used to carry out mediation analysis. Structural equation modeling was used to test for the mediation effect based on the theory of planned behavior.

Findings

The results reveal positive and significant relationships between attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control and behavioral intention. There is a full mediation effect of behavioral intention between attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control and knowledge sharing behavior. This implies that behavioral intention wholly processes planned behavior prediction.

Research limitations/implications

The sample size was small, covering only two referral hospitals which affects the generalization of findings across all the hospitals in Uganda. The study was cross-sectional focusing on a one-off perception, which does not examine knowledge sharing behavior over time. This may necessitate follow-up studies in a longitudinal design to capture the trend of results.

Practical implications

Managers in referral hospitals should create opportunities for health professionals to enhance knowledge sharing behavior. Knowledge sharing practices should be embedded in the performance appraisal and reward systems which should promote positive knowledge sharing attitudes and norms and develop self-efficacy.

Originality/value

The study generates empirical evidence on less studied phenomena in the health sector focusing on behavioral intention mediation in predicting knowledge sharing behavior.

Citation

Mafabi, S., Nasiima, S., Muhimbise, E.M., Kasekende, F. and Nakiyonga, C. (2017), "The mediation role of intention in knowledge sharing behavior", VINE Journal of Information and Knowledge Management Systems, Vol. 47 No. 2, pp. 172-193. https://doi.org/10.1108/VJIKMS-02-2016-0008