How W_ICTs influences knowledge hiding? A moderated chain mediation model

Purpose Drawing on the conservation of resources (COR) theory and the cognitive–affective personality system (CAPS) theory, the present study examines the impact of work-related use of information and communication technologies after hours (W_ICTs) on knowledge hiding. In addition, the mediating roles of role overload and moral disengagement are investigated, together with the moderating effect of organizational segmentation supplies (OSS). Design/methodology/approach Data were collected from 336 employees through a three-wave survey, were analyzed using structural equation modeling and additional statistical techniques to test the hypotheses. Findings It was found that W_ICTs significantly increase employees' engagement in knowledge hiding. Within this relationship, role overload and moral disengagement function as mediators, both independently and sequentially in a chain mediation pathway. Moreover, OSS was found to mitigate the impact of W_ICTs on role overload, thereby moderating the overall chain mediation pathway. Research limitations/implications This research challenges the prevailing assumption that ICTs necessarily facilitate knowledge sharing, and it systematically examines both working and non-working context to investigate the influence of W_ICTs on employees’ knowledge-hiding behavior. Practical implications Based on the conclusions of this study, mitigating the negative effects of W_ICTs requires first limiting their occurrence. In addition, efforts should be directed toward reducing employees’ role overload and lowering their levels of moral disengagement. Finally, the provision of OSS for employees should not be overlooked. Social implications The phenomenon of W_ICTs has become increasingly widespread. This study examines its impact on knowledge hiding and contributes to a deeper understanding of changes in work patterns driven by information technology, thereby informing organizational adaptation. Originality/value This study integrates COR and CAPS to reveal a novel sequential pathway in which W_ICTs trigger role overload (affective) that fosters moral disengagement (cognitive), leading to knowledge hiding. By clarifying this affective–cognitive mechanism, it challenges the conventional view that ICTs necessarily promote knowledge sharing and enriches the theoretical understanding of knowledge hiding.