Explaining the link between qualitative job insecurity and attitudes

Abstract

PurposeUsing the framework of fairness heuristic theory and social exchange theory, the purpose of this paper is to explore the mediating role of perceived overall justice in the relationship between qualitative job insecurity and attitudinal outcomes. In line with both theories, job insecurity is hypothesized to negatively relate to perceived overall organization-focused justice that subsequently relates to employees’ attitudes toward the organization.Design/methodology/approachA total of 291 white-collar employees were surveyed. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the data.FindingsOverall justice was found to mediate the association between qualitative job insecurity and affective commitment, turnover intention and satisfaction with the organization.Originality/valueThe study is the first study to highlight the explanatory role of overall organization-focused justice (in contrast to the justice types) in the qualitative job insecurity–outcomes relationship.