Abstract

LEZARI, Lucien William Peter  and  WALTII, Freda van der. Psychological well-being in a multicultural work environment: The role of cultural intelligence. JCMAN [online]. 2024, vol.21, n.1, pp.112-133. ISSN 1815-7440.  https://doi.org/10.35683/jcman1059.246.

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY: Globalisation has led to increased interest in the field of cultural intelligence throughout the international arena. However, it seems to be of particular importance in South Africa since it is considered to be one of the most diverse societies in the world. In this article, psychological well-being is considered within the context of South African organisations, and the aim is to evaluate the role of cultural intelligence in promoting psychological well-being in this culturally diverse context. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: A qualitative study was conducted, which involved 12 managers who work within culturally diverse organisations. The data were collected through one-on-one interviews and were thematically analysed. FINDINGS: The findings suggest that the participants experience autonomy, positive relations, meaning and purpose, and personal growth, which are indicative of positive psychological well-being. RECOMMENDATIONS/VALUE: The article suggests that more emphasis should be placed on the development of cultural intelligence at all organisational levels since this could promote psychological well-being, which may also positively influence organisational effectiveness. MANAGERIAL IMPLICATIONS: In multicultural workplaces, work environments must be created in such a way that individuals are encouraged to think independently and offer opinions and ideas without being socially pressured. By enhancing mental judgements within a culturally diverse work context, which is often characterised by problematic multicultural situations and engagements, employees are likely to function more effectively. JEL Classification: E71; M14; Z1

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