The mediating role of job stress and work-family conflict on the effect of compulsory citizenship behavior on citizenship fatigue

This study examines the effect of compulsory citizenship behavior on citizenship fatigue in healthcare, and the serial mediating roles of job stress and work-family conflict. Revealing the psychological and behavioral costs of the expected sacrifice culture, which morphed from volunteerism into implicit obligation, constitutes the starting point. Relationships were framed by the Conservation of Resources Theory and Job Demands-Resources Model. Designed quantitatively, the study involved 483 healthcare professionals reached via convenience sampling in a research hospital setting. Data analysis utilized structural equation modeling and serial multiple mediation analysis, supporting all nine hypotheses. Findings showed compulsory citizenship behavior had a direct, significant, and positive effect on citizenship fatigue. Furthermore, compulsory citizenship behavior initially increased job stress. This rising stress crossed boundaries to trigger work-family conflict, and this chain resource consumption ultimately led to citizenship fatigue. The tested serial model clearly explained forty-one percent of the variance in citizenship fatigue. Consequently, healthcare managers should avoid oppressive practices hidden under the guise of volunteerism, ensure fair task distribution, and build a supportive, ethical organizational climate that centers on employee well-being.