How does industrial relations climate enhance union citizenship behavior? Mediating effects of union instrumentality and union loyalty

Purpose This study applies conservation of resources (COR) theory to examine how the industrial relations (IR) climate influences union instrumentality and union loyalty. Additionally, it explores whether employees’ perceptions of union instrumentality and loyalty foster union citizenship behavior (UCB). Design/methodology/approach This study collected survey data from Taiwanese union stewards and tested the hypotheses using hierarchical regression analysis. Findings The results indicate that union instrumentality and union loyalty serve as key mediators in the relationship between IR climate and UCB. Originality/value This study challenges the assumption that radical actions against management necessarily benefit unions. Instead, it highlights how a harmonious IR climate strengthens union operations and recognition. Furthermore, by applying COR theory to union-management relationships, this study extends its application from individual resource dynamics to inter-organizational interactions.