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Perceived flexibility requirements: Exploring mediating mechanisms in positive and negative effects on worker well-being

Author

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  • Thomas Höge

    (University of Innsbruck, Austria)

  • Severin Hornung

    (The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, China)

Abstract

Based upon the interdisciplinary literature on organizational flexibility, the study investigates positive and negative effects of perceived flexibility requirements (PFR) on worker well-being. The authors define PFR as perceived expectations conveyed by the organization to its employees, regarding self-directed behavior related to flexibility and efficiency in organizational practices; their content can refer to (1) task fulfillment, (2) career development, (3) learning, and (4) working time. Based on a heterogeneous sample of N = 931 employees, the authors tested a structural equation model, in which time pressure, work–family conflict, and personal initiative mediated between PFR and strain. Negative effects on well-being were most pronounced for PFR with regard to working time and mediated via time pressure and work–family conflict. PFR related to task fulfillment had both negative and positive effects via time pressure, but also stimulating employee initiative. The other two dimensions of PFR explained only small amounts of additional variance in dependent variables.

Suggested Citation

  • Thomas Höge & Severin Hornung, 2015. "Perceived flexibility requirements: Exploring mediating mechanisms in positive and negative effects on worker well-being," Economic and Industrial Democracy, Department of Economic History, Uppsala University, Sweden, vol. 36(3), pages 407-430, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ecoind:v:36:y:2015:i:3:p:407-430
    DOI: 10.1177/0143831X13511274
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Ans De Vos & Dirk Buyens & Ren Schalk, 2003. "Psychological contract development during organizational socialization: adaptation to reality and the role of reciprocity," Vlerick Leuven Gent Management School Working Paper Series 2003-14, Vlerick Leuven Gent Management School.
    2. Arne L. Kalleberg, 2001. "Organizing Flexibility: The Flexible Firm in a New Century," British Journal of Industrial Relations, London School of Economics, vol. 39(4), pages 479-504, December.
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    1. Firat K Sayin & Margaret Denton & Catherine Brookman & Sharon Davies & James Chowhan & Isik U Zeytinoglu, 2021. "The role of work intensification in intention to stay: A study of personal support workers in home and community care in Ontario, Canada," Economic and Industrial Democracy, Department of Economic History, Uppsala University, Sweden, vol. 42(4), pages 917-936, November.

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