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Enhancing engagement in workplace belonging efforts: Why moral processes matter

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  20 March 2025

Dustin Maneethai Open the ORCID record for Dustin Maneethai [Opens in a new window] ,
Lars U. Johnson Open the ORCID record for Lars U. Johnson [Opens in a new window] ,
Leanne A. Atwater  and
L. A. Witt
Dustin Maneethai*
Affiliation:
Hilton College of Global Hospitality Leadership, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
Lars U. Johnson
Affiliation:
College of Business, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, USA
Leanne A. Atwater
Affiliation:
Department of Management & Leadership, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
L. A. Witt
Affiliation:
Department of Management & Leadership, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA Hobby School of Public Affairs, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
*
Corresponding author: Dustin Maneethai; Email: [email protected]
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Abstract

Organizations and managers often implement workplace training programs aimed at fostering collaboration, belonging, and respect among employees. However, the effectiveness of these programs can be undermined when they are framed in ways that only resonate with some participants while alienating others. We propose that moral reframing can enhance the success of such initiatives by aligning messaging with a broader range of moral perspectives. Drawing on moral foundations theory, we identify five key dimensions, care, fairness, loyalty, authority, and purity, that shape how individuals interpret and respond to workplace training efforts. Although many programs emphasize care and fairness, individuals who prioritize loyalty, authority, and purity may perceive them differently, leading to disengagement, skepticism, or resistance. We argue that strategically framing training initiatives across multiple moral frameworks can foster greater engagement, buy-in, and overall effectiveness. Additionally, we offer practical recommendations for organizations to implement moral reframing strategies, ensuring that training efforts resonate with a wider audience and contribute to a more cohesive and productive workplace.

Keywords

workplace trainingengagementbelongingmorality
Type
Focal Article
Information
Industrial and Organizational Psychology , First View , pp. 1 - 18
Copyright
© The Author(s), 2025. Published by Cambridge University Press on behalf of Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology

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