Negative affect and job search: Further examination of the reverse causation hypothesis

Abstract

The present study examined a longitudinal model of state and trait negative affect as predictors of job-search success. Job-search self-efficacy and job-search intensity were also examined as mediators of the negative affect—job-search success relation. Overall the model offered mixed support for Kasl’s (1982) Reverse Causation Hypothesis. Results suggested that trait negative affectivity had a direct negative relationship with subsequent job-search success (i.e., number of offers and job status). Results also suggested that trait negative affectivity related indirectly to interview success through job-search self-efficacy and job search intensity. Contrary to the Reverse Causation Hypothesis, positive relationships were found between distress (state negative affect) and job search outcomes.