Crystallising commitment through structural equation modelling: the case of manufacturing teams in South Korea

Park, Kyungok (2013). Crystallising commitment through structural equation modelling: the case of manufacturing teams in South Korea. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

The use of teams in organisations has become widespread, and research on teams has been extensive. However, in comparison with measures of organisational level variables there has been comparatively little research on team members’ attitudes and behaviour. This study examines team members’ commitment to their team and to their organisation using data from two transport-related companies in the small- and mediumsized category in South Korea (N=358). Drawing on social exchange theory and the cognition-attitude-behaviour mechanism, the thesis proposes a multiple mediation model that suggests team commitment and organisational commitment mediate the relationship between psychological empowerment and organisational citizenship behaviour.

Prior to examining the proposed theoretical model, the thesis looks at the applicability of Allen and Myer’s (1990) organisational commitment scale and the distinctiveness of team commitment from organisational commitment. Parsimonious validity testing suggests that the normative organisational commitment scale is not applicable, and a three-factor model of organisational commitment works better in a South Korean context. Analysis of structural equation models using LISREL supports the two commitments’ multiple mediation role, demonstrating that both team commitment and organisational commitment positively and independently mediate the relationships between psychological empowerment and organisational citizenship behaviour. Further, results present the negative interaction effects of the two commitment forms on organisational citizenship behaviours.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

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