Organizational Climate, Social Support and Loneliness in the Workplace

Abstract

This chapter investigates the relationship between organizational climate, social support, and loneliness in the workplace. Data were collected from 362 employees from various occupational groups. Regression analyses presented support for predicted links between community spirit at work, a climate of fear in an organization, work-based support from co-workers and supervisors, and loneliness at work. The results support the hypothesis that a negative emotional climate and lack of collegial support adversely influences the experience of loneliness in workers. The results suggest that addressing interpersonal problems in the workplace and improving the psychological work environment within an organization may enhance the social and emotional well-being of employees.

Citation

Wright, S.L. (2005), "Organizational Climate, Social Support and Loneliness in the Workplace", Ashkanasy, N.M., Zerbe, W.J. and Härtel, C.E.J. (Ed.) The Effect of Affect in Organizational Settings (Research on Emotion in Organizations, Vol. 1), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 123-142. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1746-9791(05)01106-5