Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 1, 2025

Assessing the Multiple Dimensions of Engagement to Characterize Learning: A Neurophysiological Perspective
Published on: July 1, 2015
The mediating role of psychological needs on the relationship between perceived organizational support and work
Yun-Xia Ni1, Dan Wu1, Yun Bao1
1West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University/Department of Nursing, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Sichuan, China.
Aim:
To examine the mediating effect of basic psychological needs on the relationship between perceived organizational support and work engagement among nurses.
Background:
The satisfaction of basic psychological needs is crucial for breeding and sustaining individuals' intrinsic motivation. Little is known about the underlying motivational mechanisms that explain the relationship among perceived organizational support, basic psychological needs, and work engagement in a nursing context.
Methods:
This was a cross-sectional online survey. A sample of 858 nurses from 12 hospitals was surveyed on their perceived organizational support, basic psychological needs, and work engagement. Structural equation models and bootstrapping methods were used to examine the hypotheses. STROBE reporting guidelines were utilized.
Results:
Perceived organizational support was positively associated with basic psychological needs and work engagement. Basic psychological needs were positively associated with work engagement. Basic psychological needs mediated the relationship between perceived organizational and work engagement.
Conclusion:
Perceived organizational support may enhance work engagement by fulfilling the basic psychological needs of nurses.
Implications For Nursing And Nursing Policy:
Basic psychological needs deserve more attention in nursing organizations. Managers should seek optimal strategies to fulfill nurses' needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness to stimulate their intrinsic motivation to enhance work engagement.
Related Concept Videos
Maslow's Need Hierarchy Theory
At the pyramid's base are physiological needs, including food, water, and shelter...
Psychological Responses to Stress
Maslow's Theory of Basic Human Needs
Physiological needs such as hunger, thirst, sex, physical comfort, and survival are at the bottom of the pyramid. These are the components that are necessary to sustain life. Once the first level of needs has been met, the second level arises.
Safety needs include stability and predictability. Protection and freedom from danger are all a part...
Ryan and Deci's Self-Determination Theory
Autonomy is the need to feel in control of one's actions and decisions. For example, a student who chooses their research topic is likely to be more engaged and motivated than one who...
Self-Discrepancy Theory
Humanistic Psychology
This approach...

