The mediating effect of work engagement on innovative work behavior and the role of psychological well-being in the job demands–resources (JD-R) model

Purpose This study revisits the role of work engagement (WE) on innovative work behavior (IWB) in conjunction with the job demands–resources (JD-R) model, specifically examining its mediating role between antecedent variables of psychological well-being (PWB), interpersonal conflict (IPC) and perceived organizational support (POS). Design/methodology/approach The study was conducted within five different sectors and 416 work settings in Turkey. A cross-sectional, correlational research design was used, and structural equation modeling (SEM) was applied to test the mediating effect of WE. Findings The results of the SEM provided partial support for eight hypotheses. The results of this study demonstrate a positive relationship between PWB, POS, WE and IWB. This indicates that resources are vital in increasing both WE and IWB. As expected, the correlation of IPC and IWB resulted in a negative relationship. The findings demonstrate a positive relationship between PWB and WE and IWB. Research limitations/implications Extending the model, future research could incorporate the antecedents as mediators and utilize them to further explore the mechanisms of employee engagement (EE) and the IWB link. It would also be beneficial to include other variables such as personal differences, trust, personal environment fit, fairness in the workplace, recognition and organizational culture and employee value proposition as moderators of EE and IWB. Practical implications The findings offer the suggestion of few practical applications such as the need to encourage organizations to enhance PWB to foster positive feelings in the work environment. This includes increasing employees' effort and dedication by utilizing POS in the workplace and considering employee's well-being. Additionally, EE should be an important organizational strategy to positively influence employee creativity within the workplace. Social implications This research was conducted within the Turkish business context; it would be worthwhile to validate the findings of this study in a multicultural context that did not share similar basic characteristics as those in Turkey. There could be a comparative study of EE between Turkey and other countries as a cross-cultural investigation. Originality/value The results of data analysis have revealed an enhanced understanding of the role of the mediation effect of WE on IWBs. This study also expands the concept that psychological well-being can enhance WE, which in turn corresponds to more IWB in the context of the JD-R model. The findings indicate that in order to better comprehend its function, IPC needs to be further examined with other antecedents.