Psychosocial and Career Support from Different Types of Role-Multiplexity in Developmental Relationships

Luisa Barthauer,Simone Kauffeld,Daniel Spurk

doi:10.4236/psych.2018.98122

Abstract

Related to role theory’s expansion approach, this study focused on how various social roles in one focal person-network member relationship (i.e., multiplexity) relate to the amount of psychosocial and career support. We expected different types of multiplex relationships in comparison to simplex relationships to be positively associated with the support received by the focal person. Via multilevel analysis in M plus, 2995 dyadic relationships of developmental networks nested in 533 persons were analysed. Concerning psychosocial support, a positive association with multiplex relationships from the non-work context, and the combination of work and non-work context could be observed. Multiplex relationships from the work context and multiplex relationships from the work and non-work context were positively associated with career support.

Highlights

Within the fast-paced, global world, career trajectories are more diverse and transitive than ever before
Related to role theory’s expansion approach, this study focused on how various social roles in one focal person-network member relationship relate to the amount of psychosocial and career support
We aim to investigate the effect of role multiplexity on psychosocial and career support

Summary

Introduction

Within the fast-paced, global world, career trajectories are more diverse and transitive than ever before. The concept of a network of developmental relationships providing support regarding professional and private matters is increasingly researched (Dobrow & Higgins, 2005; Higgins, 2000; Murphy & Kram, 2010). Relationships are highly complex in their nature and so far we have limited knowledge of how relationship characteristics, such as role multiplexity, in developmental networks, relate to the amount of psychosocial and career support. Previous research indicates that the support received from a developmental network is positively related to career advancement, promotions, salary increases, and career satisfaction (Kram, 1985; Whitley, Dougherty, & Dreher, 1991)

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