Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
PhD Student, Department of Strategic Management, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.
2
Associate Professor, Department of Management, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.
Abstract
Purpose: This study investigates the relationship between Islamic work ethics, spiritual values, and workplace incivility, with a particular emphasis on the mediating role of spiritual values. The increasing prevalence of workplace incivility has become a critical issue for many organizations, creating significant challenges that affect various aspects of organizational functioning. These challenges include not only reduced productivity and diminished employee morale but also strained interpersonal relationships and diminished overall job satisfaction. The negative impact of workplace incivility can be far-reaching, potentially leading to increased turnover, reduced employee engagement, and a decline in organizational performance. In light of these challenges, the primary goal of this research is to examine how Islamic work ethics and spiritual values can serve as powerful tools to mitigate negative workplace behaviors. The study aims to explore how these values can foster a culture of respect, cooperation, and ethical conduct, contributing to a healthier, more productive work environment.
Design/Methodology/Approach: To address the research objectives, a descriptive-analytical research method was employed. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire that included standardized scales designed to measure Islamic work ethics (Ali, 1992), spiritual values (Adawiyah & Pramuka, 2017), and workplace incivility (Cortina et al., 2001). The statistical population for the study consisted of 850 employees working in the Social Security Organization of East Azerbaijan Province, a large public institution with diverse employee roles and workplace dynamics. A random sample of 256 employees was selected for the study, ensuring a representative cross-section of this population. Before data collection, the validity and reliability of the questionnaires were rigorously assessed to ensure the robustness of the measurements. Following data collection, statistical analysis was performed using SPSS and AMOS software to test the research hypotheses and validate the proposed model.
Findings: The results of the study revealed several important insights regarding the relationships between Islamic work ethics, spiritual values, and workplace incivility. First, it was found that Islamic work ethics have a significant negative impact on workplace incivility. This suggests that adherence to Islamic ethical principles, such as honesty, justice, and respect for others, plays a crucial role in reducing instances of negative behaviors in the workplace. Employees who embrace these principles are more likely to engage in ethical behavior, which helps to foster a work environment characterized by mutual respect and cooperation. Additionally, Islamic work ethics were found to have a significant positive effect on spiritual values. This highlights the complementary relationship between ethical behavior and spiritual beliefs, suggesting that employees who embody Islamic work ethics are more likely to value spiritual principles such as empathy, compassion, and a sense of shared responsibility. Spiritual values, in turn, were shown to have a direct negative influence on workplace incivility, acting as a protective factor against uncivil behaviors. Employees who prioritize spiritual values are more likely to engage in respectful interactions with their colleagues, which helps to reduce instances of incivility. An important finding of this study was the confirmation of the mediating role of spiritual values. The results demonstrated that spiritual values act as a bridge through which Islamic work ethics exert their indirect effect on reducing workplace incivility. This suggests that while Islamic work ethics play a foundational role in shaping employees' behavior, it is the internalization of spiritual values that ultimately leads to a more respectful and collaborative work environment. The mediation effect highlights the importance of nurturing both ethical and spiritual values within organizations to address workplace incivility more effectively.
Discussion and Conclusion: The findings of this study align with existing literature, emphasizing the critical role of ethical and spiritual frameworks in improving workplace behaviors. Islamic work ethics, with principles like justice, honesty, and mutual respect, provide a foundation for addressing workplace incivility. By fostering a work environment based on these principles, organizations can reduce behaviors like disrespect, rudeness, and unprofessionalism. The mediating role of spiritual values highlights the importance of nurturing employees' emotional resilience, empathy, and positive interpersonal dynamics. Spiritual values help employees cope with stress, reduce conflict, and build supportive relationships, fostering a positive environment of collaboration and mutual respect. The study also demonstrates the transformative potential of integrating Islamic work ethics and spiritual values into organizational culture. Promoting these values can reduce incivility, improve well-being, and create a harmonious work environment. The findings provide practical insights for managers and policymakers to embed ethical and spiritual frameworks into organizational practices. Organizations can implement these findings by developing training programs focused on fairness, accountability, and respect. Additionally, initiatives to foster spiritual values, such as workshops and supportive policies, can enhance employee engagement and performance. This study offers a unique contribution by highlighting the mediating role of spiritual values, offering a fresh perspective on the intersection of ethics, spirituality, and workplace behavior. The research lays a foundation for future studies on how to create ethical, supportive work environments.
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