The influence of spirituality in the relationship between religiosity and work engagement: a perspective on social responsibility

Purpose - This study aims to investigate the impact of spirituality, spiritual experiences, religiosity, efficacy and job engagement among Brazilian university professors, particularly focusing on the implications for social responsibility. Design/methodology/approach - Data were gathered from a nonprobability sample of academics from private and public universities in Brazil during periods of crisis using a standardized survey. The study used partial least squares structural equation modeling as the method for data analysis. Findings - The study identified robust correlations between daily spiritual experiences (DSE), spirituality and job engagement and efficacy. Additionally, an indirect effect of religiosity on these variables was identified, mediated via DSE. Religiosity was found to impact spiritual experiences and spirituality. The results identified a direct influence of spirituality on work vigor and self-efficiency. However, the study revealed no significant indirect relationship between religiosity, job engagement and efficacy when mediated solely through spirituality. Research limitations/implications - This study is primarily limited by its sampling method and Brazil’s cultural context, potentially affecting the generalizability of the findings. Future research should include a more diverse demographic and extend beyond the Brazilian context to various cultural settings. Despite these limitations, the study provides valuable insights for managers leveraging religiosity, spiritual experiences and spirituality to create a more inclusive workplace. Emphasizing these aspects can help foster an environment that respects and accommodates employees’ diverse religious and spiritual beliefs, enhancing workplace harmony and engagement. Practical implications - The findings are relevant for university administrations and policymakers. Recognizing the role of spirituality, spiritual experiences and religiosity in academic engagement can guide the development of more supportive, inclusive and socially responsible work environments. Social implications - This research underscores the social responsibility of educational institutions to consider and integrate their faculty members’ spiritual and religious dimensions, especially during times of crisis. It highlights how these aspects can significantly influence engagement and efficacy, contributing to a more holistic approach to employee well-being and organizational culture. Originality/value - This study brings a novel contribution to the dialogue around social responsibility in academia by associating religiosity, spiritual experiences and spirituality with job engagement and effectiveness during a global crisis. It highlights the importance of these personal dimensions in the professional environment, particularly in times of elevated stress and uncertainty.