Alterable correlates of extrinsic and intrinsic job satisfaction at a state residential facility

A cross-section of employees at a state residential facility for mentally retarded persons was administered a composite questionnaire to assess factors associated with job satisfaction. Using a multivariate statistical approach, we examined two measures of job satisfaction (extrinsic and intrinsic) in relation to employee perceptions of organizational climate and selected job characteristics. Unique multiple regression analyses indicated that constraining conformity, decision frequency, and clarity of supervisor instructions were related to both measures of job satisfaction; organizational clarity, reward, and satisfaction with materials were related only to extrinsic satisfaction; and organizational standards and degree of resident contact were related only to intrinsic job satisfaction. Differences in variable contributions "ignoring" and controlling for other variables were emphasized. Variables were ranked according to their importance in predicting job satisfaction. Investigators are encouraged to consider the distinction between extrinsic and intrinsic job satisfaction in future research.