Arguably, job satisfaction is one of the most important variables with regard to work. When explaining job satisfaction, research usually focuses on predictor variables in terms of levels but neglects growth rates. Therefore it remains unclear how potential predictors evolve over time and how their development affects job satisfaction. Using…

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…

Building on theoretical frameworks like the Job Demands Control model and Action Theory we tested whether the relationship between workload and employees' experiences of opportunities for workplace learning is of an inverted u-shaped nature and whether autonomy moderates this relationship. We predicted that--at moderate levels of…

Drawing from theory on met expectations, person-environment fit, and social information processing, misfit between the pressure and autonomy experienced by workers and that which would be expected given their occupational roles was examined as a predictor of job satisfaction, perceived support, and depression. Results from a nationally (U.S.)…

Surveys completed by a random sample of 1,884 blue-collar unionized workers showed that perceived role enhancement opportunities (more task complexity and autonomy) were positively related to attitudes associated with promotion opportunities (commitment, work involvement, career opportunity satisfaction). This was especially true for workers with…

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 longitudinal study over a five-month period of changes in several jobs was conducted among 244 employees of a federal agency. Data were obtained on perceptions of job content and a number of job attitudes, and indicated a temporary positive influence of the changes in one set of jobs. (Author)

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)

Conceptualizes job characteristics theory as a model of person-environment fit. Explores the potential costs and benefits of person-job congruence, using recent developments in the person-environment fit literature to suggest ways in which characteristics of jobs and characteristics of individuals may influence one another. Discusses implications…

This literature review examines trends in research and theory on vocational behavior from two perspectives: counseling psychology and organizational behavior. Important distinctions and areas of convergence between the two are discussed. A 213-item bibliography is provided. (SK)