The interplay between spirituality, compassion and citizenship behaviours in the lives of educators: a study

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of workplace spirituality on citizenship behaviours of high school teachers. In addition, the moderating role of workplace compassion is examined.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is quantitative in nature. Data were collected from 232 secondary school teachers using a structured questionnaire. Partial least squares-based structural equation modelling was used to analyse the data.

Findings

Results revealed evidence for the positive relationship between spirituality and citizenship behaviours. Compassion was found to be a potential moderator in enhancing the spirituality–citizenship behaviour connection. This study attempts to understand one of the ways in which spirituality affects workplace behaviour by specifying the role of a moderator. The complex nature of the phenomenon is delineated further by identifying the plausible relationship with other variables.

Practical implications

Organisations can leverage the spiritual resources available to their people to compound their proactive behaviours, thus creating a win–win situation for both the parties involved. This is particularly useful for educational institutions where such behaviours are not merely desirable but could significantly elevate the working environment.

Originality/value

This study evaluates the connections between spirituality, compassion and citizenship behaviour, which remain largely unexplored in a non-profit sector. The construct of workplace compassion is not sufficiently mapped, especially in a context where it is thought to be embedded in the work environment.

Citation

Mahipalan, M. (2023), "The interplay between spirituality, compassion and citizenship behaviours in the lives of educators: a study", International Journal of Ethics and Systems, Vol. 39 No. 4, pp. 804-819. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJOES-12-2021-0233