Impact of Psychological Ownership and Capital on Role Conflict and Ambiguity in the Nigerian Health Sector

Sharon Chidinma Egonwanne, Afolabi Taiwo, Rotimi Senbajo

Abstract


ABSTRACT

 

Purpose: This study examines the impact of psychological ownership and psychological capital on role conflict and role ambiguity among employees in the Nigerian health sector, focusing on how internal psychological resources shape responses to role-related stressors.

Design: A quantitative survey design was employed using standardized scales to measure psychological ownership, psychological capital (self-efficacy, hope, resilience, and optimism), role ambiguity, and role conflict. Data were collected from healthcare professionals across selected institutions and analyzed using SPSS (version 27). Descriptive statistics indicated relatively high mean scores across constructs (M = 3.55–4.31). Analytical techniques included correlation and multiple regression.

Findings: The study concludes that employees demonstrate strong psychological engagement with their roles despite experiencing role ambiguity and conflict. Psychological ownership reinforces attachment and responsibility, while psychological capital provides the internal capacity to manage uncertainty and sustain performance. The influence of psychological capital is more pronounced in addressing role ambiguity, with a stronger explanatory effect (R² up to .537) compared to role conflict (R² up to .252), indicating varying levels of psychological adjustment across role stressors.

Research limitations: The cross-sectional design and reliance on self-reported data limit causal interpretation, while the focus on selected healthcare institutions constrains generalizability. Future studies should adopt longitudinal and multi-level approaches.

Practical implications: Strengthening psychological resources and improving role clarity mechanisms are essential for enhancing employee effectiveness and stability in healthcare settings.

Originality/value: This study offers a context-specific contribution by integrating psychological ownership and psychological capital in explaining role stress within the Nigerian health sector.

Keywords: Psychological ownership; Psychological capital; Role ambiguity; Role conflict; Healthcare employees.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.58869/EJABM12(2)/01


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References


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European Journal of Applied Business and Management

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