Core self‐evaluations: a review of the trait and its role in job satisfaction and job performance

Abstract

Over the past five years there has been a growing body of literature that examines the relationships among some of psychology's most studied traits (Neuroticism, self‐esteem, and locus of control). Core self‐evaluation theory posits a conceptual and empirical relationship between these traits and job satisfaction. After briefly reviewing core self‐evaluation theory, we examine the empirical evidence documenting a relationship between these traits and the two central criteria of interest to I/O psychologists—job satisfaction and job performance. We then examine the relationship between core self‐evaluation traits and the Big Five personality traits. We conclude with a discussion of the contributions and limitations of core self‐evaluation research and opportunities for future research. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.