Distributive justice and normative commitment: the mediating role of job satisfaction among the executives

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine the impact of distributive justice on normative commitment, both directly and indirectly through job satisfaction. Instead of integrating all the components of justice and commitment, distributive justice and normative commitment have been given prominence.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected through standardised scales from the 305 executives working in the top eight cement organisations located in the central part of the Indian subcontinent. Structural equation modelling (SEM) with bootstrapping was employed to evaluate the hypotheses.

Findings

The results proved that distributive justice helps increase normative commitment and affects job satisfaction positively. Additionally, job satisfaction acts as a mediator between distributive justice and normative commitment.

Research limitations/implications

Due to the adaptation of self-reported questionnaires, the chances of method bias cannot be completely denied. However, the Harman’s single-factor analysis was conducted to handle it. Moreover, the data were obtained from a single source, i.e. the cement industry.

Practical implications

HR practitioners may use the outcomes of this study to promote distributive justice while allocating their sources. It also helps in implementing specific strategies to improve job satisfaction and commitment.

Originality/value

The study proposed a more complex linear model that included job satisfaction as a mediator. Moreover, the study is conducted in emerging economies, which addresses the research gaps in the existing body of literature.