Using temporally-lagged data from 146 business and engineering newcomers, we found evidence for a "positive side" of plasticity theory (Brockner, 1988, p. 547) in fostering newcomer adjustment. Specifically, as predicted, we found that higher newcomer generalized self-efficacy positively moderates the association between job design (i.e., task…

Comments from Blustein, Eldredge, and Hesketh on research reported by Feij et al. on the role of proximal and distal context factors and the theories of organizational socialization and work adjustment. A rejoinder from Feij et al. clarifies some of the issues. (SK)

A survey of 859 entry-level workers from 8 European countries employed as machine operators and office technology workers identified the processes that account for the development of career-enhancing strategies and job content innovations. Supervisor or coworker relations and intrinsic work values were most important. (SK)