Between Work Conditions and Job Outcomes: Testing a Nomological Network of Life Satisfaction

Abstract

Organizational research has shown growing interest in understanding the nomological network of life satisfaction. Based on bottom-up theory of life satisfaction, this study examined the structural associations among work conditions, job satisfaction, life satisfaction, and job outcomes. Using dyadic data obtained from 273 employees and 85 supervisors in South Korea, our multilevel path analysis revealed a good fit with the hypothesized model. Organic structure, autonomy, and social support were indirectly and positively associated with life satisfaction via job satisfaction while work hours was directly and negatively associated with life satisfaction. Formal structure was not associated with job satisfaction or life satisfaction. Life satisfaction was negatively associated with turnover intention. However, neither life satisfaction nor job satisfaction was associated with job performance. Although our study supports life satisfaction theories overall, our findings somewhat contradict extant literature. Thus, further discussions and investigations are needed based on contextual characteristics. The significance of this study lies in identifying the influence of work conditions and providing guidance on how to enhance employee satisfaction across domains to maintain employee well-being and organizational effectiveness.