Abstract:
The IT sector in Sri Lanka has emerged as a pivotal element in enhancing national
economic development, however, the heightened expectation for performance, swift
technological progressions, and norms of virtual communication can concurrently
lead to interpersonal difficulties, encompassing subtle instances of social exclusion.
Workplace ostracism has emerged as a significant social stressor influencing both
emotional well-being and behaviour. While most studies emphasize its negative
effects, this research explores the potential of ostracism to stimulate pro-social
behaviour (PSB), among employees. Based on the Temporal Need-Threat Model of
Ostracism, this study examines how the need for affiliation (NA) influences the
association between workplace ostracism (WO) and pro-social behaviour within the
IT sector in Sri Lanka. Data was gathered through a convenience sample comprising
142 full-time employees engaged in IT enterprises in Sri Lanka. A systematic
questionnaire employing pre-validated metrics was utilised for assessment, and data
analysis was performed utilising SPSS version 24. The findings indicated a notable
positive correlation between WO and PSB (r = 0.34, p < 0.01), signifying that certain
employees may react to social exclusion by adopting more cooperative or altruistic
behaviours. Furthermore, NA demonstrated a robust positive correlation with PSB (r
= 0.52, p < 0.01). Additionally, the interaction between WO and NA was statistically
significant (β = 0.18, p = 0.04, ΔR² = 0.03), indicating that individuals with a
pronounced need for affiliation are more likely to exhibit PSB under conditions of
ostracism. These findings extend the Temporal Need-Threat Model by clarifying how
affiliation needs shape responses to workplace ostracism. The study advances
workplace behaviour theory by highlighting relational differences and urges IT
organisations to foster inclusivity and address interpersonal motives to reduce
ostracism and promote pro-social behaviour.
