How Does Public Service Motivation Mediate the Relationship between Adaptive and Authentic Leadership and Employee Outcomes? Empirical Evidence in Vietnam

Abstract

This study explores how adaptive and authentic leadership influence Public Service Motivation (PSM) and employee outcomes in Vietnam. Using structural equation modeling with 709 participants, we found that both leadership styles positively impact PSM. The bright and dark sides of PSM affect employees’ attitudinal and behavioral outcomes, with higher PSM linked to greater resilience and engagement, but also emotional exhaustion and lower withdrawal behavior. Furthermore, adaptive and authentic leadership indirectly affect emotional exhaustion through PSM sub-dimensions. These findings offer theoretical and practical contributions for public service organizations in Vietnam, emphasizing the importance of leadership in enhancing employee motivation and outcomes.