THE MEDIATING ROLE OF VIRTUOUSNESS IN HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AND JOB OUTCOMES

ABSTRACT In this study, we explore the role of organizational virtuousness (OV) as a mechanism through which human resource management practices (HRMPs) affect employee outcomes. We propose that HRMPs lead to higher levels of organizational citizenship behaviors and affective commitment by stimulating OV. Using a sample of 525 workers, from 22 stores of a retailing company, we found evidence that HRMPs predict OV, thereby predicting members’ citizenship behaviors and affective commitment. By suggesting this new mediator, this study contributes to a better understanding of the causal chain linking HRMPs and performance.