The moderating effect of collectivistic orientation in psychological empowerment and job satisfaction relationship

This study examines the moderating effect of collectivistic value on the relationship between psychological empowerment and job satisfaction. Specifically, we propose that the multi-dimensional psychological effects of empowerment (i.e., meaning, competence, self-determination, and impact) on job satisfaction differ between high and low collectivistic employees. Data collected from hotel employees in Canada (n = 193) and China (n = 371) revealed that collectivistic orientation elevated (attenuated) the effect of self-determination (impact) on job satisfaction. However, no significant results were found with respect to meaning and competence. Research and practical implications for the findings as well as directions for future research are suggested.

Research highlights▶ Effects of the four dimensions of empowerment on job satisfaction are different across cultures. ▶ Effect of self-determination dimension is elevated by high collectivistic orientation. ▶ Effect of impact dimension is attenuated by low collectivistic orientation. ▶ Effects of meaning dimension and competence dimension are not moderated.