Compulsive citizenship behavior and turnover intention: a two-stage moderated mediation model of emotional exhaustion and mindfulness

This study aimed to investigate the moderating effect of mindfulness on the relationship between compulsive citizenship behavior (CCB) and emotional exhaustion, which, in turn, affects turnover intention. Specifically, this study developed and evaluated a two-stage moderated mediation model in which employee mindfulness moderates the pathway from CCB to turnover intention through emotional exhaustion, which is achieved by suppressing emotional and behavioral responses. To validate the proposed model, the author conducted two studies involving the measurement and manipulation of CCB and mindfulness. Study 1 employed a time-lag design to explore these relationships among 421 employees, whereas Study 2 extended this analysis to 592 employees through a scenario-based experimental laboratory study. Study 1 did not demonstrate the expected attenuation of the relationship between CCB and emotional exhaustion among individuals with higher trait mindfulness. Study 2 confirmed these findings through a scenario-based laboratory study that elucidated the critical moderating role of mindfulness in these relationships. This study also presents relevant theoretical and practical implications for future research.