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Reciprocal relationships between dispositional optimism and work experiences: A five-wave longitudinal investigation
Wen-Dong Li1, Shuping Li2, Doris Fay3
1Department of Management.
The Journal of Applied Psychology
|May 17, 2019
Summary
Dispositional optimism can decrease job insecurity, which in turn boosts optimism. Higher income also increases optimism over time, highlighting the dynamic interplay between employees and their work environments.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Organizational Behavior
- Personality Science
Background:
- Dispositional optimism's impact on work outcomes is well-researched.
- Emerging research explores how life experiences shape optimism development.
- This study integrates selection and socialization perspectives on optimism.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine reciprocal relationships between dispositional optimism and work experiences.
- To investigate the influence of income, job insecurity, and social support on optimism.
- To reconcile contrasting views on personality development and work outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study with five waves of data collection.
- Latent change score modeling to analyze reciprocal relationships.
- Assessment of dispositional optimism, income, job insecurity, and support.
Main Results:
- Optimism reduced job insecurity; reduced insecurity subsequently increased optimism.
- Increased income positively predicted later increases in optimism.
- No significant links found between optimism and coworker or supervisor support.
Conclusions:
- Challenges assumptions of unidirectional effects of optimism on work outcomes.
- Emphasizes the importance of studying personality change in organizational contexts.
- Reveals a nuanced, dynamic interplay between optimistic employees and their work environment.
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