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Being Helped and Being Harmed: A Theoretical Study of Employee Self-Concept and Receipt of Help

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Abstract

Employee self-concept has long been recognized as a critical factor determining employee performance-related outcomes. As such, a considerable amount of research attention has been paid to exploring employee self-concept. However, relatively little is known about how an employee’s self-concept may be affected when the employee is the recipient of help-giving behavior exhibited by other organizational members. Consequently, we attempt to develop a theoretical model describing how an employee’s self-concept, in the forms of task-specific self-efficacy (TSSE) and organization-based self-esteem (OBSE), is affected by receipt of help. Additionally, we investigate the moderating roles of locus of control (LOC) and individualism–collectivism. In particular, we propose that higher levels of help received result in lower levels of TSSE and OBSE perceived. Moreover, we posit that internal LOC strengthens the negative impact of receiving help on TSSE and OBSE. Furthermore, we argue that individualistic tendencies strengthen the negative relationship between receiving help and TSSE and OBSE. Consequently, our theoretical model provides important insights into understanding employee self-concept in the organization.

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  1. College of Business & Engineering, The University of Texas of the Permian Basin, 4901 E. University Blvd., Odessa, TX, 79762, USA

    Shih Yung Chou

  2. Tatung Institute of Technology, 253 Mituo Rd., East Dist., Chiayi City, 60005, Taiwan

    Tree Chang

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  1. Shih Yung Chou
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Chou, S.Y., Chang, T. Being Helped and Being Harmed: A Theoretical Study of Employee Self-Concept and Receipt of Help. J Happiness Stud 18, 1573–1592 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10902-016-9788-z

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