THE IMPACT OF WORKPLACE EMPLOYEE GRIEVANCES ON BURNOUT: MEDIATING ROLE OF PSYCHOLOGICAL SAFETY AMONG NON-MANAGERIAL EMPLOYEES IN SELECTED PRIVATE SECTOR BANKS IN COLOMBO DISTRICT: A CONCEPTUAL STUDY

Abstract

Even though the non-managerial employees in the banking sector act as the important foundation, they are given heavy workloads and limited decision-making power, and face restricted opportunities to voice out their problems. When their grievances are not resolved properly, it may result in extreme emotional trauma and ultimately in burnout. This concept paper focuses on the impact of workplace employee grievances on burnout, which particularly targets private sector non-managerial employees in the Colombo district. Furthermore, this study examines whether psychological safety mediates this relationship. This paper seeks to identify the impact of unresolved grievances on burnout as well as the degree to which psychological safety can reduce the impact. The core focus of this study is to develop a conceptual framework rather than to engage in empirical investigation. It links both local and international studies to provide a model that indicates employee grievances as a possible sign for burnout, which often results in emotional exhaustion and reduced motivation. The Maslach Burnout Theory, which describes burnout as emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation, and reduced personal accomplishment, acts as the main foundation of this study. Additionally, psychological safety acts as a key barrier that can reduce the adverse effects of unresolved grievances. The anticipated results emphasise the need for psychologically safe workplaces, in which non-managerial employees can freely express their concerns without stressing about the negative consequences. This study promotes HR practices by highlighting open communication and efficient grievance settlement procedures to improve employee well-being and retention rate in the banking sector.