Work-related use of information and communication technologies (W_ICTs) and job satisfaction of kindergarten teachers: A moderated mediation model

The high turnover rate of kindergarten teachers has become a global problem. Job satisfaction is regarded as a contributing factor that can reduce turnover intention. We sought to examine the relationship between work-related use of information and communication technologies after hours (W_ICTs) and kindergarten teachers' job satisfaction, as well as the mediating role of emotional exhaustion and the moderating role of perceived organizational support in the link between W_ICTs and emotional exhaustion. A sample of 434 participants of kindergarten teachers completed questionnaires on W_ICTs, job satisfaction, perceived organizational support and emotional exhaustion. Results indicated that kindergarten teachers' emotional exhaustion played a partial mediating role in the relationship between W_ICTs and job satisfaction. In addition, perceived organizational support moderated the association between W_ICTs and emotional exhaustion. Specifically, W_ICTs had a greater impact on emotional exhaustion for kindergarten teachers with low perceived organizational support. Copyright © 2023 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V.