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Measuring autonomy in hybrid work: scale development
Background: Autonomy is a core element in many established management theories, consistently linked to positive employee outcomes. However, the COVID-19 pandemic and rapid technological advancements have transformed workplace dynamics, particularly in the information technology (IT) sector in India, where hybrid work models have gained prominence. Despite this shift, no standardized measure exists to assess the autonomy experienced by employees in hybrid work environments, hindering deeper analysis and understanding. Objective: This study aims to contextualize, develop, and validate the Autonomy in Hybrid Work Scale (AHWS) for the Indian context, providing a tool for researchers and practitioners to systematically examine the impact of autonomy in hybrid work. Methods: A descriptive two-phase study was conducted following DeVelliss scale development framework. Phase 1 focused on conceptualizing and developing the construct through a comprehensive literature review, item generation, and assessment of content and face validity by experts, followed by a pilot test. Phase 2 encompassed the scale validation process, which included Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) to identify the underlying factor structure and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) to validate the model and assess its fit. Results: The data collected from 313 IT employees working in Bengaluru, India, was analyzed to confirm data normality (below 2.58). The items showed a strong and positive correlation (r =.734) with the Work Design Questionnaire which indicated convergent validity. Discriminant validity was confirmed through Fornell-Larcker and Heterotrait-Monotrait (HTMT) criteria, with HTMT values below 0.90. The final analysis yielded an 18-item scale with a Cronbachs alpha of 0.825, comprising four distinct dimensions: (a) work location autonomy, (b) work time autonomy, (c) work scheduling autonomy, and (d) work decision autonomy. Implications: The AHWS offers a valuable tool for both managers and academics to assess how different forms of autonomy influence employee well-being and productivity in hybrid work settings. It also addresses a gap in the literature, providing a foundation for further empirical research on autonomy in hybrid work models. The Author(s) 2025. -
Is your phone ruining your well-being? Exploring the role of phubbing and mobile phone usage addiction on the well-being of users
Background: The consumption of mobile screen time is increasing day by day. When a person engages with the mobile phone for an extended period of time, it depicts addiction and escapes from the surroundings, leading to phubbing behavior. Therefore, this study investigates mobile phone addiction and how phubbing behavior affects psychological well-being. In addition, this paper examines the moderating role of self-determination theory in the aforesaid relationship. Methods: To examine the cause-and-effect relationship among the examined variables, PLS-SEM is used as a statistical tool for analysis. The data was collected from 450 participants via a survey through mall-intercept method, using a non-probability purposive sampling technique. Results: The results exhibited that mobile phone addiction is a significant determinant of phubbing behavior and well-being. The results also indicated that phubbing behavior negatively influences the well-being of the mobile phone user. It was also found that need satisfaction theory moderated the relationship between mobile phone usage, phubbing behavior, and well-being. The role of gender and time spent on mobile phones as control variables was also found to be significant. Originality: This current study offers insights into mobile phone addiction, phubbing behavior, and well-being, offering theoretical and practical implications fordigitalhealth, underpinned by the need satisfaction theory on the mobile phone user. The Author(s) 2026. -
Mediating role of resilience on the relationship between meta emotions and emotional regulation among neglected adolescents
Background: Adolescence is a pivotal stage in human development, marked by significant biological, cognitive, and emotional transformations that shape an individual's character and future behaviour. The emotional strategies and behavioural patterns inculcated during this phase become integral aspects of one's personality, influencing how one navigates through various life challenges. For vulnerable adolescents, such as neglected children in institutional care or orphans, negative life experiences can heighten the risk of developing psychological concerns. This heightened vulnerability is often exacerbated by impaired emotional regulation and low resilience, which may contribute to the emergence of internalising disorders. Methods: The present study was conducted to examine the relationship between meta emotions and difficulties in emotional regulation among neglected adolescents and to analyse the mediating effect of resilience on this relationship. The participants of the study were 667 neglected adolescents: 335 males (50.2%) and 332 females (49.8%) who belong to the age group 13 to 17years (mean age = 14.60, S.D = 1.16) years from various institutional homes across Bangalore. Results: The results of this study confirm that in the presence of increased levels of negative meta emotions in an individual, despite the mediating effects of resilience, difficulties in emotional regulation will be further worsened. This was substantiated by the positive correlation between negative meta emotion and difficulties in emotional regulation. Contrastingly, elevated positive meta emotions in an individual, along with the mediating effects of resilience, reduce the difficulties in emotional regulation. This was also reinforced by the strong relationship between positive meta emotions and difficulties in emotion regulation. Conclusion: The findings of the study highlight the prevalence of increased negative meta emotions and poor emotional regulation among neglected adolescents, which is of utmost importance from a psychological, social and policy-making perspective. This calls for the need for tailored and individual-focused interventional strategies to improve the psychological health of these vulnerable children. Moreover, the critical period of adolescence is a crucial time for implementing effective policies in order to shape the behavioural and cognitive aspects of personality with much-needed care, support, and professional guidance. The Author(s) 2025. -
Sexual harassment complaints across BSE100 companies: a longitudinal dataset (20132023)
Objective: This dataset offers empirical support for understanding the number of sexual harassment complaints across various industries and sectors, and for analysing patterns over a decade. The data was manually collected from the annual integrated report or business responsibility report of each company on the BSE100 list. This dataset can be utilised by the Indian Ministry of Women & Child Development and related stakeholders as a foundation for studying the impact of previous interventions and policy changes on complaint reporting rates. Additionally, it can also be used to analyse patterns and trends and give way to revisions to existing legal frameworks and improvements to grievance redressal mechanisms for sexual harassment complaints. Data description: Data includes descriptive statistics for all variables and compares complaints received between each year and the subsequent year, with a total of 10 year-to-year comparisons for the period: 20132024. The variables are: (1) List of BSE100 Companies, (2) Industry, (3) Sector, (4) Number of sexual harassment complaints received for the periods: 20132024, (5) Number of sexual harassment complaints pending during the periods: 20132024. The Author(s) 2025. -
The role of psychological capital in shaping climate anxiety across generations
Background: Climate change has transitioned from a distant environmental issue to an immediate psychological reality that profoundly affects how individuals perceive their future and well-being. This study investigates generational differences in climate anxiety and examines the role of psychological capital (PsyCap) as a potential protective resource through the lens of Environmental Identity Theory (EIT). Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 384 participants in Kerala, India, comprising Generation X (33.6%), Millennials (29.9%), and Generation Z (36.5%). Climate anxiety was measured using the Climate Anxiety Scale (Clayton & Karazsia, 2020), and PsyCap was assessed through the PCQ-12, encompassing hope, efficacy, resilience, and optimism. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and multiple regression, with effect sizes and confidence intervals reported. Results: Significant generational differences emerged for both cognitiveemotional impairment (F(2,381) = 3.83, p =.023) and functional impairment (F(2,381) = 6.15, p =.002). Gen Z reported significantly higher anxiety levels than Millennials (p =.045, d = ? 0.29*) and Gen X (p =.011, d = ? 0.35*). Regression analyses indicated that PsyCap and generation jointly predicted cognitiveemotional (R = 0.04, p =.008) and functional impairments (R = 0.056, p =.001), with self-efficacy emerging as a significant negatively associated with functional impairment (B = ? 0.12, p =.043). Conclusion: Gen Z experiences greater emotional and functional impacts of climate anxiety compared to older cohorts, while self-efficacy offers a modest buffering effect for functional impairment. These findings underscore the need for interventions that strengthen psychological resources and adaptive coping to mitigate climate-related distress among younger populations. The Author(s) 2026. -
Addressing quarter life crisis as a public health priority
The Quarter-Life Crisis (QLC), a period of intense self-doubt, anxiety, and identity confusion during early adulthood has become a widespread phenomenon affecting mental health and well-being globally. In the Indian context, this phase is further shaped by cultural expectations, economic uncertainty, and social transitions that shape young adults sense of purpose and stability. Although often discussed in psychological and sociological terms, the QLC remains under-addressed in public health discourse. This perspective paper argues for the recognition of QLC as a legitimate public health issue with cross-sector implications. Economic precarity, including unstable employment, student debt, and housing insecurity, plays a critical role in exacerbating this crisis, making it not only a psychological experience but also a condition influenced by broader socioeconomic and cultural forces. Drawing on developmental psychology, sociocultural theory, and the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this paper situates the Quarter-Life Crisis within Indias evolving social landscape and examines it as a social determinant of mental health. It further highlights community-based and digital interventions, such as resilience and self-compassion apps, that can support young adults. Integrating QLC into public health frameworks particularly those focused on Good Health and Well-Being (SDG 3) can offer timely, systemic solutions to a rising mental health concern among Indias youth and the global young adult population. The Author(s) 2026. -
Impact of job stress and work-life balance on turnover intention among Indian healthcare workers
The Healthcare sector is widely regarded as a high-stress-inducing environment, with considerable studies examining job stress and work-life balance in the healthcare sector since the COVID-19 pandemic. While these factors are well-documented, there is a growing need to shift the focus towards rising turnover rates within the industry post-pandemic. With this background, the study aims to examine the impact of job stress and work-life balance on turnover intentions among doctors by delving deeper into the dimensions of these variables and probing the effect of demographics on these variables. The proposed research employed a quantitative design to gather data from 127 healthcare doctors using purposive sampling. The data for this study were collected through an online Google form designed with three validated scales, which comprised doctors from diverse specializations and years of experience. The findings revealed that time stress significantly impacts work interference with personal life (WIPL) and personal life interference with work (PLIW). Personal life interference with work (PLIW) emerged as the strongest determinant of turnover intentions. Further, a greater psychological strain was encountered among female doctors than their male counterparts, implying that gender also had a potential influence on the outcome of the study. As a result, the study offers recommendations that can guide the retention strategies in healthcare organizations and promote a healthier and sustainable workforce. The Author(s) 2026. -
Awareness and perception of adolescent boys about menstruation: an exploratory study from rural India
Background/objectives: Menstruation, despite being a natural process, remains stigmatized in many patriarchal societies, where taboos and misinformation perpetuate silence and misconceptions. This study investigates adolescent boys awareness and perceptions of menstruation in rural India, examining the influence of cultural, educational, and social factors on their understanding. Methods: Employing an exploratory qualitative design, a focus group discussion (FGD) was conducted with eight 15-year-old boys from a rural secondary school in Kerala, India. The session was audio-recorded and supplemented with detailed field notes to capture verbal and non-verbal insights. Braun and Clarkes thematic analysis framework was used to identify key themes. Results: Three primary themes emerged: Levels of awareness (ranging from correct but insufficient to lack), Sources of knowledge (media, peers, cultural practices), and Desire for further knowledge. Findings indicate that fragmented or inaccurate knowledge, shaped by cultural and societal norms, reinforces stereotypes and stigma around menstruation. Conclusions: Findings underscore the need for inclusive and culturally sensitive educational interventions for boys, aimed at dispelling myths and fostering empathy. Such programs can contribute to improved awareness, reduced stigma, and greater support for menstrual hygiene management (MHM) practices. Future research should assess similar interventions across broader contexts to determine their impact on challenging menstrual taboos. The Author(s) 2025. -
We just keep pushing through: a mixed-method study on musculoskeletal discomfort and mental well-being among nurses in resource-limited settings
Background: Nurses in under-resourced settings frequently report high levels of musculoskeletal (MSK) discomfort, which significantly affects their mental well-being. While workplace strain is well documented, the combined impact of physical burden and institutional neglect remains underexplored in these environments. Aim: The study aims to examine the prevalence of MSK discomfort and its association with psychological well-being among nurses in under-resourced healthcare environments in Northeast India, and to explore the experiential and structural factors contributing to these occupational health risks. Methods: A sequential mixed-methods study design was employed, following an explanatory approach. The study commenced with a survey to gather quantitative data. Quantitative data were collected from 216 nurses using the Extended Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (Extended-NMQ) and the WHO-5 Well-Being Index, the results of which informed the development of subsequent interview questions. Semi-structured interviews were then conducted with 11 nurses to capture experiential and structural factors. This structure enabled deeper contextual understanding and facilitated triangulation across data types. Results: Among the participants, 47.2% reported experiencing lower back pain, followed by discomfort in the knees (27.3%) and upper back (25%). Higher levels of MSK discomfort were significantly associated with employment in the public sector and more than ten years of work experience. A strong negative correlation was observed between MSK discomfort and mental well-being. Thematic analysis revealed key stressors: physical depletion, emotional exhaustion, organizational apathy, and limited healthcare access. In response to these challenges, nurses often relied on self-management due to insufficient institutional support. Triangulated findings underscored how structural deficiencies intensified both physical and psychological strain among nurses. Conclusions: There is an urgent need for evidence-based occupational health interventions to address ergonomic, psychosocial, and institutional challenges, particularly in low-resource healthcare settings, to safeguard the well-being of frontline nursing staff. This study offers novel understanding from a high-need yet under-researched geographic context, namely the northeastern states of India, bridging empirical gaps in MSK health literature through the integration of experiential and structural factors. Clinical trial number: Not applicable. The Author(s) 2025. -
An in vitro slow-growth callus conservation strategy for several medicinal plants using response surface methodology and machine learning
Background: In vitro culture of callus is an effective method for conserving the genetic resources of economically important crops. However, continuous subculturing is a costly and labor-intensive process. Therefore, establishing an efficient in vitro long-term conservation system applicable to various plant species is required. In this study, calli derived from five medicinal plant species, Camellia japonica (Cj), Centella asiatica (Ca), Ligusticum afficinale (Lo), Panax ginseng (Pg), and Sageratia thea (St) were used to optimize storage conditions and establish a suitable in vitro conservation strategy. Calli cultures were maintained on the appropriate culture medium at 5C for 120 days. Cell viability and regrowth rate were assessed during the storage period, and correlations between growth and antioxidant traits were examined. Subsequently, pretreatment optimization using sucrose (39%), MeJA (0-200 M), and CTR (020mg/L) was performed using RSM, and the effects of pretreatment and storage temperature on callus conservation were evaluated. In addition, machine learning models such as GRNN, MLP, RF, SVR, and XGBoost were applied to the experimental data. Results: The findings demonstrated that, in comparison to Ca and St, Lo, Pg, and Cj exhibited noticeably higher antioxidant capacity while maintaining high cell viability and regrowth rates. Interestingly, Ca and St drastically decreased viability and regrowth after 60 days, whereas Lo, Pg, and Cj maintained viability and regeneration for up to 90 days. Both TPC and AC (measured by FRAP assay) showed a high positive correlation with cell viability and growth rate, according to correlation analysis. RSM predicted that the optimal pretreatment medium for enhancing antioxidant capacity was the species-specific proliferation medium supplemented with 3% sucrose, 135 M MeJA, and 20mg/L CTR, while the highest TSSC was achieved using the species-specific proliferation medium supplemented with 9% sucrose and 200 M MeJA. When the storage temperature was set to 15C following the antioxidant-enhancing pretreatment derived from the RSM optimization, all five species showed improved cell viability and regrowth rates, among the storage methods. Among the ML models tested, XGBoost demonstrated the most stable and accurate predictive performance for both viability and regrowth during in vitro conservation. SHAP-based analysis of the XGBoost model, focusing on regrowth rate, revealed that storage duration was the most influential factor affecting regrowth prediction, followed by storage temperature, while pretreatment conditions showed secondary but meaningful contributions. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that long-term callus conservation is closely associated with AC and TPC. Medium supplemented with sucrose 3%, 135 M MeJA, and 20mg/L CTR, followed by storage at 15C, significantly improved viability and regrowth, and calli could be maintained up to 120 days without subculturing. This approach provides an efficient and broadly applicable in vitro strategy for the conservation of diverse plant genetic resources. The Author(s) 2026. -
Comprehensive transcriptomic and functional characterization of protoplast regeneration in Angelica gigas Nakai
Background: Protoplasts that are isolated from various plant sources, including leaf mesophyll tissue, callus, will continue to have the ability to take part in cell wall regeneration, division, and expression of totipotency. In model systems like Arabidopsis thaliana, it has been thoroughly established. Meanwhile, the fate of protoplasts isolated from both embryogenic (EC) and non-embryogenic callus (NEC) in other plants is unknown. Thus, we conducted transcriptome analyses of protoplasts produced from both EC and NEC in Angelica gigas in the present investigation. To achieve this, three stages of RNA sequencing were carried out: (1) EC, (2) freshly isolated protoplasts (Pt), and (3) cells undergoing cell division (CD) during A. gigas in vitro protoplast regeneration. Different gene expression programs were identified across stages through transcriptome profiling, which highlighted early stress responses, transcriptional changes, and the acquisition of stem cell identity following protoplast isolation. Results: A pre-existing stem cell-like condition was shown by the strong expression of WUSCHEL-RELATED HOMEOBOX5 (WOX5) and CUP-SHAPED COTYLEDON2 (CUC2) genes at the EC stage. Important genes linked to stress reactions and cellular transcriptional changes, as WOX13 and WOUND INDUCED DEDIFFERENTIATION1 (WIND1), were significantly elevated at the Pt stage. Additionally, during this phase, genes associated with the cell cycle, auxin and cytokinin signaling, and cell wall regeneration were also active, indicating a dynamic shift toward regaining stem cell identity. Key regulators of stem cell maintenance and proliferation, such as LATERAL ORGAN BOUNDARIES DOMAIN16 (LBD16) and ENHANCER OF SHOOT REGENERATION2 (ESR2), were then substantially expressed at the CD stage, encouraging the start of cell division. The dynamic regulation of embryogenesis-related genes, including SOMACTIC EMBRYOGENESIS RECEPTOR-LIKE KINASE 2 (SERK2), LBD29, ESR2, LBD16, D-TYPE CYCLINS (CYCD3-2), and WOX1, during protoplast culture was validated by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Conclusions: WOX5 and CUC2 genes were found to be significantly expressed at the EC stage, suggesting a pre-existing stem cell-like state. Important genes linked to stress reactions and cellular transcriptional changes, as WOX13 and WIND1, were clearly elevated at the Pt stage. The activation of genes linked to cell wall renewal, auxin and cytokinin signaling, and the cell cycle during this phase also suggested a dynamic transition toward regaining stem cell identity. Additionally, the findings previously reported show that the EC-derived protoplasts successfully underwent cell division and contributed to the development of somatic embryos. Although the NEC-generated protoplasts did not divide upon culture, these results show that embryogenic cells maintain their embryogenic potential even after protoplast isolation and culture. The Author(s) 2026. -
GeneRiskCalc: a web-based tool for genetic risk association analysis in casecontrol studies
Background: Genetic association studies play a pivotal role in identifying disease-associated variants, but researchers face challenges in performing essential calculations like HardyWeinberg equilibrium testing, odds ratios, and confidence intervals due to reliance on manual methods or multiple software tools. We aimed to develop GeneRiskCalc, an integrated web-based platform that simplifies genetic association analysis by automating HardyWeinberg equilibrium assessment, odds ratios with confidence interval calculation, and visual data presentation in casecontrol studies. Using an HTML/CSS/JavaScript framework, we developed online software with three core functionalities: (1) automated HWE evaluation, (2) odds ratio with 95% confidence interval computation with statistical validation, and (3) dynamic Forest Plot generation for data visualization. The tool was designed with an intuitive interface to minimize prerequisite statistical expertise. Results: The tool, named the Genetic Risk Association Calculator (GeneRiskCalc), demonstrated high computational accuracy in HWE testing (?2 validation) and association metrics (odds ratio and confidence interval). The results were cross-validated against established statistical methods, confirming their reliability. Furthermore, the integrated Forest Plotter enabled immediate visualization of effect sizes across multiple genetic models, facilitating a comprehensive interpretation of genetic associations. Conclusion: By integrating essential analytical steps into a single platform, the GeneRiskCalc, streamlines genetic epidemiology workflows, addressing key challenges in data analysis. Its user-friendly interface enhances accessibility, promotes reproducibility, and accelerates research in genetic association studies. The tool is freely available at GeneRiskCalc (https://sites.google.com/view/GeneRiskCalc/home?authuser=0). The Author(s) 2025. -
A Cross-sectional Study on Factors Associated with Sexual Satisfaction Among Non-working Married Women in Bengaluru
Background: Sexual satisfaction is a complex concept influenced by physical, psychological and socio-cultural factors. However, there is a lack of research on what determines sexual satisfaction among non-working married women in India. This gap hinders our understanding of how traditional gender roles, economic dependence and cultural norms affect the sexual well-being of this group. This study aims to explore the factors associated with sexual satisfaction among non-working married women in Bengaluru, India. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 180 non-working married women. Data were collected using the New Sexual Satisfaction Scale, the Psychological Distress Scale, the Subjective Happiness Scale and a self-prepared questionnaire on various factors related to sexual satisfaction. Descriptive statistics and multiple regression were used to analyse the data. Results: Factors significantly associated with non-working womens sexual satisfaction include physical factors (menstrual health difficulties, reproductive health issues and urogenital problems), psychological factors (psychological distress and subjective happiness) and socio-cultural factors (education, knowledge of sexual health at the time of marriage, type of marriage, age, age difference between couples and duration of marital life). Family-related factors (type of family, family pressure for children and exhausting household work) and couple-related characteristics (spouses smoking/drinking patterns and relationship with the spouse) were also significant. Together, these factors explained 78.6% of the variability in sexual satisfaction among non-working married women. Conclusion: The findings highlight the need for health interventions to promote healthy lifestyles and suggest changes in sexual health practices. They also indicate the need for training health professionals to address the sexual health aspects of women. Further longitudinal studies with larger samples are required to better understand the relationship between these predictors and sexual satisfaction. 2025 The Author(s). This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/) which permits non-commercial use, reproduction and distribution of the work without further permission provided the original work is attributed as specified on the SAGE and Open Access page (https://us.sagepub.com/en-us/nam/open-access-at-sage). -
Exploring Self-Objectification Among Queer Community in IndiaA Qualitative Study
The objectification theory proposes that membership in sexually objectifying societies gradually socializes queer individuals to adopt an observers perspective on their physical self, which in turn leads to negative emotional and behavioral consequences. The queer community in India has existed for centuries, but their rights have only received attention recently. They still continue to be deprived of societal and legal status. With an aim to understand self-objectification among the queer community in India, this qualitative study attempts to explore the interplay of external factors and their relationships in shaping self-image and self-acceptance. This phenomenological study used an interpretive paradigm on the self-objectification of members of the queer community in India. The study was conducted on 10 individuals from the queer community using semi-structured interviews, and the obtained data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings indicate the profound impact of societal beauty norms, family dynamics, peer interactions, and media influence on their self-esteem, body image, and identity. Implications of these findings call for increased awareness, education, and support to create a more inclusive and accepting environment for the queer community. Future recommendations include the development of interventions, educational programs, and mental health support services tailored to the needs of this community. 2025 The Author(s). This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/) which permits non-commercial use, reproduction and distribution of the work without further permission provided the original work is attributed as specified on the SAGE and Open Access page (https://us.sagepub.com/en-us/nam/open-access-at-sage). -
Critiquing the Regulation of Sand Mining in India: The Role of Social Workers
The soaring demand for sand driven by rapid urbanisation, population growth and increased global investment in infrastructure has intensified sand mining activities worldwide, with current extraction rates exceeding natural replenishment. The Government of India has strengthened legislation by amending existing laws and formulating new guidelines to govern sand mining operations. However, sand mining activities, both legal and illegal, have continued unabated, leading to various consequences across the country. The prevailing laws in India appear to be stringent but have failed in effective implementation at the grassroots level. Therefore, illegal and irregular sand extraction operations have continued to occur at an accelerated pace. The observations indicate that regulatory authorities are merely symbolic and ineffective in controlling and monitoring sand mining operations effectively at the community level. Further, the inefficiency of authorities has facilitated indiscriminate and illicit sand mining operations, resulting in significant social, economic and ecological repercussions. Considering these aspects, the present study advocates the use of social work methods, such as community organisation, social work research and social action, to address the issue effectively. Furthermore, it urges local authorities and policymakers to take action by setting up vigilance committees in every community, so that people themselves can monitor sand mining and protect their surroundings more effectively. The Author(s) 2026 -
Role of Experiential Learning Program on Business Writing Skills of Management Students
Purpose: Writing has been identified as an important skill. Business writing refers to the form of writing that is used to communicate in formal settings in various corporations and organizations. A number of research studies have identified writing as a crucial skill that needs to be developed by students. The purpose of the study is therefore to understand how an experiential learning module on business writing can improve the email-writing and report-writing skills of management postgraduates. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study uses an experimental research methodology based on experiential learning pedagogy to obtain the results of the intervention on the business writing skills of the management postgraduate students. The module was developed by the researcher and then was taught to the students through the online platform Zoom. Pretest, posttest, and delayed posttest analysis was conducted to find the impact of the intervention. The students were evaluated by an industry expert to avoid bias as they were trained by the researcher. Findings: The results of the study indicated that the intervention had a significant impact on the business writing skills of the participants. The results of the component analysis also indicated a large effect on the content, persuasive abilities, lateral thinking abilities, and the interpersonal skills of the participants in written communication. The analysis of the test scores revealed that an initial training based on the experiential learning methods can have a long-term impact on the improvement of the skills of the students, as the delayed posttest results were more than the posttest results. Originality/value: The study will be beneficial to educators, trainers, as well as students in understanding how experiential learning can impact the business writing skills of the students. 2024 by the Association for Business Communication -
The Mediating Effect of WorkLife Integration on the Relationship Between Hybrid Work Practice and Work Engagement in the Information Technology Industry
Post-pandemic, hybrid work arrangements have garnered the interest of researchers. The main aim of the study is to explore the influence of hybrid work practices on worklife integration and work engagement among IT industry employees. The job demandsresources (JD-R) model and self-determination theory (SDT) have been used to derive the conceptual model to explain the hybrid work practices which can be essential for a balance between work and life, and engagement at work. Using a mixed method, this research first quantitatively investigated hybrid work practices, worklife integration and work engagement among 253 IT employees in India. The quantitative findings were supplemented by a qualitative methodology involving interviews of five IT employees. Later, data triangulation was performed to cover IT employees different perspectives on hybrid work practices. This research highlights that hybrid work practices constituting conventional workplace, work flexibility, work focus and work communication are positively related to worklife integration and employees work engagement. Hybrid work practices play an elemental role in work-related outcomes; however, due to the complex nature of hybrid work mode, longitudinal studies with a larger sample size should be explored. The Author(s) 2025. -
The Mediating Effect of WorkLife Integration on the Relationship Between Hybrid Work Practice and Work Engagement in the Information Technology Industry
Post-pandemic, hybrid work arrangements have garnered the interest of researchers. The main aim of the study is to explore the influence of hybrid work practices on worklife integration and work engagement among IT industry employees. The job demandsresources (JD-R) model and self-determination theory (SDT) have been used to derive the conceptual model to explain the hybrid work practices which can be essential for a balance between work and life, and engagement at work. Using a mixed method, this research first quantitatively investigated hybrid work practices, worklife integration and work engagement among 253 IT employees in India. The quantitative findings were supplemented by a qualitative methodology involving interviews of five IT employees. Later, data triangulation was performed to cover IT employees different perspectives on hybrid work practices. This research highlights that hybrid work practices constituting conventional workplace, work flexibility, work focus and work communication are positively related to worklife integration and employees work engagement. Hybrid work practices play an elemental role in work-related outcomes; however, due to the complex nature of hybrid work mode, longitudinal studies with a larger sample size should be explored. The Author(s) 2025. -
Can Heedful Interrelating Be a Self-empowering Approach to Thwart Maladaptive Workplace Functioning? An Integrative Literature Review
Maladaptive workplace functioning hinders task completion, work-goal attainment and collaborative interactions, thereby affecting the optimal utilisation of human capital, learning outcomes and organisational sustainability. By integrating self-determination theory, the theory of heedful interrelating and the socially embedded model of thriving at work, this study proposes a conceptual model as a self-empowering approach to thwart maladaptive functioning. A five-stage integrative literature review was conducted to examine the available knowledge base, critically review and synthesise selected literature on heedful interrelating to locate a knowledge gap and bring forth a new way of thinking to address employee workplace maladaptive functioning. A sample of ten empirical articles was consolidated to gauge the antecedents and outcomes of heedful interrelating. The originality of the study lies in bridging the dialectic gap of self-determination theory, introducing heed as a novel factor to the relatedness dimension and employing an intelligent review methodology to propose a practical workplace solution to maladaptive functioning. The Author(s) 2025. -
An Introduction to Agile for HR Through the Development of an Agile Operating Mindset
An understanding of Agile principles and a readiness mindset for human resources professionals play a crucial role in determining the application of Agile for HR in an organisational context. With the rise in extended and non-linear workforce configurations and geo-neutral team arrangements, Agile organisations necessitate that the nature of the HR function evolve from working through traditional architectural models and quickly adopting Agile models of functional excellence. The dearth of literature on understanding and implementing Agile practices in the HR function within enterprises requires a clear examination of the advantages of going Agile for HR. This essay explores the intuitive concept of Agile HR and operating schema, which can develop as a starting point in examining an understanding of how Agile practices in HR can evolve for sustainable enterprises and some challenges that are encountered. The Author(s) 2024