THE IMPACT OF GRAPEVINE COMMUNICATION ON JOB ENGAGEMENT OF THE ACADEMIC STAFF OF THE NATIONAL COLLEGES OF EDUCATION: INCORPORATING WORK STRESS AS THE POTENTIAL MEDIATOR

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of grapevine communication on job engagement among academic staff at the National Colleges of Education in Sri Lanka, specifically focusing on the mediating role of work stress. The research is grounded in Uncertainty Reduction Theory which suggests that individuals actively seek information to reduce uncertainty and improve their understanding of individuals and situations. A quantitative research approach, using a survey design, was employed to collect data from a sample of 225 academic staff members. The findings reveal a significant positive impact of grapevine communication on job engagement. Additionally, a significant negative impact of grapevine communication on work stress was observed, suggesting that effective grapevine communication can reduce work stress. Furthermore, a negative impact of work stress on job engagement was also found. The study explores the mediating effect of work stress on the impact of grapevine communication on job engagement which reveals the result of partial mediation effect of work stress. This research supports Uncertainty Reduction Theory by illustrating how grapevine communication can reduce uncertainty and boost job engagement. While the findings provide valuable insights, future research could explore this topic further by employing a longitudinal design, integrating qualitative methods, and studying a broader range of organisational contexts.