The role of predictors and cognitive conflicts on information sharing at cooperatives

Abstract

This study examines the role of conflict predictors and cognitive conflicts, moderated by intra-work group affective conflicts, on information sharing at cooperatives. Structural equation modeling was applied to survey data with cooperative managers. Results demonstrate that predictors of task interdependence and mutuality among group members influence cognitive conflicts, contrasting with task types. Findings on mediation of cognitive conflicts in these relationships are similar. Moderation of cognitive conflicts in information sharing was not significant for affective conflicts. It is concluded that predictors and cognitive conflicts can be beneficial when establishing conditions to expand information sharing, which requires balance in intragroup conflicts. These results have implications mainly for managing predictors and cognitive conflicts with a view to their effectiveness in intragroup communication at cooperatives.