Using the group engagement model we hypothesize that two differentiated leadership constructs – LMX differentiation at the group level and a new construct LMX relational separation at the individual-within-group level – interact with LMX to affect follower citizenship behaviors (OCB) and turnover intentions. Data from 223 followers and their leaders situated across 60 workgroups demonstrate that the effects of individual perceived LMX quality are contingent upon a group's overall variability in LMX (i.e. LMX differentiation) and employees' similarity in terms of LMX with their coworkers (i.e. LMX relational separation). Specifically the effects of high quality LMX relationships on OCB and turnover intentions are weaker when group LMX differentiation or employees' LMX relational separation is higher rather than lower. Our findings contribute to a growing stream of multilevel LMX research incorporating climate effects and offer an alternative
view of differentiated leadership in groups. Key implications for theory and practice are discussed.