The Moderating Role of Job Satisfaction in the Effect of Leader-Member Interaction on Workplace Happiness in Academia

The aim of this study is to examine whether job satisfaction has a moderating role in the effect of leader-member exchange on workplace happiness. The data of the research, which was conducted within the scope of quantitative research model and correlational research design, were collected by convenience sampling method from 322 academicians working in the field of social sciences in Turkey. These data were analyzed using SPSS 25 and AMOS 25 statistical programs. As a result of the analysis, it was determined that there were positive and significant correlations between the variables of leader-member exchange, workplace happiness and job satisfaction. In addition, it was found that job satisfaction had a moderator role in the effect of leader-member exchange on workplace happiness. In other words, if job satisfaction is high, the effect of perceived leader-member exchange on workplace happiness is higher. There is no study in the relevant literature that evaluates the moderator role of job satisfaction in studies examining the relationship between leaders and members and workplace happiness. Therefore, it is believed that this research will provide a source and contribution to the field.