Understanding, Prediction, and Control as Moderators of the Relationship between Work Conditions and Well-Being
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to provide a preliminary test of a model proposed by Sutton and Kahn (1983), which states that the ability to predict, understand and control events in the work environment can reduce the potential adverse effects generally associated with certain work conditions. Using a sample of physicians, dentist, and nurses (N=138), from a large naval medical hospital, the present study examined the conditions and various work and health outcomes such as job satisfaction, anxiety, and physical health status. The current study went beyond Sutton & Kahn's original proposal in two ways. First, it distinguished two types of control at work: control over ones own time and behavior (control-self) and control over the time and behavior of others (control-others). Second, it hypothesized and tested effects on health outcomes not proposed by Sutton and Kahn. Hypotheses predicting moderating effects on the relationship between organization conditions and job attitudes were generally supported. Less support was found for hypotheses involving psychological and physical health as outcomes. However, specific exceptions were notable e.g., role ambiguity effects on psychological health was clearly and consistently moderated by understanding and control.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1985
- Accession Number
- ADA157622
Entities
People
- James M. Larocco