High-performance work systems and employee voice behavior: a sequential mediation analysis

Purpose Based on ability-motivation-opportunity, social exchange, and job demands-resources theories, this research aims to investigate how high-performance work systems (HPWS) are linked to voice behavior through sequential mediating effects of psychological meaningfulness and work engagement in a Middle Eastern context. Design/methodology/approach Structural equation modeling was employed to analyze data obtained from a sample of 538 nurses working in various hospitals located in Palestine. Findings The findings show a positive association between HPWS and voice behavior. In addition, the study findings support the sequential mediation of psychological meaningfulness and work engagement on the association between HPWS and voice behavior. Originality/value This study is one of the few examining the effect of HPWS on individual-level outcomes in the context of the Middle East. More specifically, our study is the first to test the association between HPWS and voice behavior, especially in this under-researched context. It is also the first to explore the influence of HPWS on voice behavior through sequential mediating pathways of psychological meaningfulness and work engagement.