Dimensions of Organizational Commitment in the Public Sector: An Empirical Assessment

摘要: INTRODUCTION Organizational commitment has been a popular research topic among organizational and behavioral researchers for decades. This interest is due, in part, to the fact that employee generally recognized as one of major determinants effectiveness (Schein, 1970; Steers, 1975). Higher levels commitment, example, are linked higher job performance (Mowday et al., 1974; Van Maanen, 1975; Porter 1976; 1977; Larson Fukami, 1984), lower absenteeism (Steers, Koch 1978; turnover (Porter Hom 1979; Angle Perry, 1981; Price Mueller, 1984). The further emphasized many recent studies various conceptualization issues (e.g., Mowday 1982; Morrow, 1983; Reichers, 1985). These examine not only methods issue measurement (Allen Meyer, 1990; McGee Ford, 1987; Meyer Allen, 1984) but also behavior consequences multidimensional (Oliver, 1989; Randall 1990). Faced with crisis public sector (Volcker Commission, 1989), several administration Romzek, Perry Wise, Dobel, 1990) recognize need study specific motives. They suggest key increasing service motivation more empirical needed understand its motivational base organizations. Empirical on dimensions would help managers identify components establish policies programs foster enhance commitment. purpose this fulfill by examining empirically complex subject using scale developed scientists. LITERATURE REVIEW MULTIDIMENSIONS OF ORGANIZATIONAL COMMITMENT conceptualized measured variety ways. Mowday, Porter, Steers (1982) noted 10 different definitions Morrow (1983) identified over 25 commitment-related concepts or measures literature. Staw (1977) pointed out difficulty separating concept from other affective such motivation, satisfaction, involvement. Experts contend conceptual chaos do tendency define terms assumed rather than what it actually Buchanan, 1974). Researchers (Angle Ferris Aranya, 1984; 1987) agree two views dominate literature: (1) attitudinal approach (2) approach. sees an attitude reflecting nature quality linkage between organization 1974, 1976) portrays highly committed individual who has: 1) strong belief acceptance organization's goals values; 2) willingness exert considerable effort behalf organization; 3) desire maintain membership organizations 1974:604). dimension used significant number (Lee, 1971; 1974a, 1974b; 1984: O'Reilley Chatman, 1986). concerned mainly process which individuals develop sense attachment their own actions 1990:20; Salancik, Staw, Becker, 1960). …