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Decent work in a transition economy: An empirical study of employees in China

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  • Chen, Shih-Chih
  • Jiang, Wei
  • Ma, Yin

Abstract

Psychology of Working Theory (PWT) is a recently proposed framework to evaluate issues of decent work. This study evaluates the predictors and outcomes of decent work and uses the model to compare samples of public and non-public Chinese employees from diverse economic and occupational backgrounds. The theoretical framework has economic constraints as a predictor; job and life satisfaction as outcomes; with work volition, career adaptability and decent work as mediators. Overall, most of the hypothesized direct paths were significantly positive, except that economic constraints negatively influence career adaptability and work volition. The results indicate that the PWT is applicable to Chinese employees and the theory is supported in a Chinese context. The results have implications for the individuals and companies. For the individuals, interventions based upon career adaptability and work volition are proposed. For the companies, decent work is an important means for promoting employees’ job and life satisfaction. Finally, research findings and managerial implications are discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Chen, Shih-Chih & Jiang, Wei & Ma, Yin, 2020. "Decent work in a transition economy: An empirical study of employees in China," Technological Forecasting and Social Change, Elsevier, vol. 153(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:tefoso:v:153:y:2020:i:c:s0040162519319353
    DOI: 10.1016/j.techfore.2020.119947
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    2. Yin Ma & Shih-Chih Chen & Athapol Ruangkanjanases, 2021. "Understanding the Antecedents and Consequences of Green Human Capital," SAGE Open, , vol. 11(1), pages 21582440209, February.
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    4. Wei Wan & Ryan D. Duffy, 2022. "Decent Work and Turnover Intention Among New Generation Employees: The Mediating Role of Job Satisfaction and the Moderating Role of Job Autonomy," SAGE Open, , vol. 12(2), pages 21582440221, April.

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