Examining the Relationship between Ethical Climate and Burnout Using Role Stress Theory

Abstract

The current study draws on the role stress theory and assesses the impact of the ethical climate on burnout. The authors addressed a hitherto unexplored causal mechanism through which unethical practices in an organization culminate in exaggerated burnout among employees. The study collected data from 313 respondents working in service organizations in Pakistan. PLS-SEM was used to analyses the data, and the dimension model and operational model were investigated to determine the model's predictive capability. The research indicates that there is an adverse association between moral climate and role vagueness and role clash. In addition, role vagueness and role clash positively influence emotional tiredness and depersonalization. This is the first study that addresses this critical workplace phenomenon. Besides, the study presents several important theoretical and managerial implications.