Core self-evaluations, job search behaviour and health complaints: The mediating role of job search self-efficacy

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand the role played by core self-evaluations (CSEs) in relationship to both job seekers’ job search behaviour and health complaints by examining the mediating role of job search self-efficacy (JSSE).

Design/methodology/approach

The present cross-sectional study was conducted on 216 Romanian unemployed persons. The hypothetical and alternative models (partial and full mediation) were tested using structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results supported a total mediation between CSE and job search behaviour and a partial one in relationship with health complaints, via JSSE. As a post hoc decision, a brief meta-analysis was conducted for the relationship between CSE and job search behaviour which revealed a very small effect (r=0.07, p=0.001). This result complemented and certified the findings on the lack of a total and also a direct effect between CSE and job search behaviour.

Originality/value

JSSE seems to be an important motivational factor. Fuelled by CSE, JSSE enables proper job search behaviour and also promotes job seekers’ health. From a practical point of view, the data suggest that developing interventions to strengthen unemployed individuals’ personal resources such as CSE and, especially JSSE, could not only foster their employment but could also protect their health.

Citation

Vîrga, D. and Rusu, A. (2018), "Core self-evaluations, job search behaviour and health complaints: The mediating role of job search self-efficacy", Career Development International, Vol. 23 No. 3, pp. 261-273. https://doi.org/10.1108/CDI-11-2017-0208