Feel like quitting the job? A causal attribution approach to social and work overload consequences

Abstract

Purpose In an effort to study the effects of stress factors i.e. work overload and social overload, the authors integrate causal attribution research to develop a stress outcome model. Drawing on Affective Events theory, this study aims to investigate how work and social overload lead to turnover intentions with the mediating role of emotional exhaustion. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative approach to examine the direct linkage of stress factors to turnover intention was tested for 409 respondents working at middle and senior manager level posts in the banking sector of Lahore, Pakistan. Partial least square structure equation modeling technique was applied through Smart_PLS3.0 for hypothesis testing. Findings Results revealed a strong relationship between stress factors (i.e. social overload and work overload) and turnover intentions in the presence of emotional exhaustion as a significant mediator. Originality/value The study adds value to the theory and practice by examining the understudied stress factors (social overload) along with work overload and their consequences on the employees.