MEDIATION ROLE OF PSYCHOLOGICAL SAFETY IN THE EFFECT OF LEADER-MEMBERS EXCHANGE ON INDIVIDUAL CREATIVITY

Leader-member exchange theory argues that positive relationships between employees and leaders will positively contribute to organizations. This research was conducted to determine the effect of leader-member exchange on individual creativity through psychological safety. The research was performed with white-collar employees in various sectors in Istanbul. The study sample consists of 390 white-collar employees, and the data were collected through online survey forms. Mediation models were used to test the hypotheses. According to research findings, leader-member exchange positively affects employees' psychological safety and creativity. Additionally, psychological safety positively affects employees' creativity. Finally, psychological safety has a mediating role in the effect of leader-member exchange on individual creativity. According to the research results, the positive relationships of white-collar employees with their leaders motivate individual creativity by increasing psychological confidence. All research hypotheses were supported. Suggestions have been provided in terms of both practical and theoretical aspects.