The Job Characteristics Model and Growth Satisfaction: Main Effects of Assimilation of Work Experience and Context Satisfaction

Abstract

This article argues that behaviors which predict individual variance in satisfaction do not necessarily co-exist with the need for activities which lead to satisfaction. Specifically, we examine the effect of sensitivity to performance variations on growth satisfaction. We label this sensitivity "assimilation of work experience" (A WE). In contrast to growth need strength (GNS), A WE is shown to have a main effect on growth satisfaction independent of job scope and context satisfaction. In addition, the claim that the job scope/growth satisfaction relationship is stronger for low than high context satisfaction is examined. We contend that the theory also predicts a main effect of context satisfaction on growth satisfaction. Three samples comprising middle level managers, lower level managers, and sales representatives are studied. Total sample size is 1702. Multiple regression is the primary analytical method.