Take control: A two-study evaluation of a self-regulation intervention with randomized controlled trials

Area of Science:

• Organizational Psychology
• Workplace Interventions
• Self-Regulation Theory

Background:

• Modern workplaces are increasingly characterized by hybrid models, demanding new strategies for effective work organization.
• Workers face challenges in managing work and private life demands within flexible working environments.
• Self-regulation strategies are crucial for adapting to these evolving work structures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a web-based intervention based on Action Regulation Theory for hybrid workers.
• To assess the intervention's impact on work performance, occupational self-efficacy, and work-life balance.
• To determine the intervention's effectiveness in improving psychological detachment and reducing work-life conflict.

Main Methods:

• Two randomized controlled trials (N=128 in Study 1, N=125 in Study 2) were conducted.
• Participants were assigned to either an intervention group or a waitlist control group.
• Questionnaires were administered pre- and post-intervention to measure outcomes.

Main Results:

• The intervention positively impacted occupational self-efficacy, task performance, and proactivity in Study 1.
• Study 1 also showed delayed positive effects on work-life conflict and detachment.
• Study 2 demonstrated immediate positive effects on occupational self-efficacy and work-life conflict.

Conclusions:

• The developed self-regulation intervention is effective for enhancing work performance aspects in hybrid settings.
• Training self-regulation skills can significantly improve occupational self-efficacy.
• The intervention proves beneficial in reducing work-life conflict for employees in hybrid work environments.