Open Access

ARTICLE

Speak up in a safe space: The role of inclusive leadership and collectivism in fostering upward voice

Longmei Wang¹, Jiawen Liu¹, Lei Lu^2,*

1 School of Economics and Management, Zhongshan Polytechnic, Zhongshan, 528404, China
2 School of Psychological and Cognitive Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China

* Corresponding Author: Lei Lu. Email:

Journal of Psychology in Africa 2025, 35(3), 309-317. https://doi.org/10.32604/jpa.2025.068580

Received 09 September 2024; Accepted 10 April 2025; Issue published 31 July 2025

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between inclusive leadership and subordinates’ upward voice, focusing on the mediating role of psychological safety and the moderating role of collectivism. Data were collected from 284 subordinates and supervisors across 11 organizations in China in three cross-lagged waves. Structural equation modeling results indicated that inclusive leadership was associated with subordinates’ upward voice via psychological safety. Moreover, collectivism strengthens the association between inclusive leadership and upward voice via psychological safety, leading to a higher upward voice. These findings highlight the importance of inclusive leadership in fostering an environment that promotes open communication and psychological safety between supervisors and subordinates, ultimately enhancing workplace health and well-being. The implications of these findings suggest that management practices should cultivate inclusive leadership behaviors for enhancing psychological safety, and encouraging subordinates to voice their opinions for the overall success of the organization.

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Keywords

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