Psychosocial factors in the information and communication technology sector

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to contribute to the understanding of psychosocial factors in the German information and communication technology (ICT) sector. Specifically, the authors seek to explore the relationships between sources of workplace social support and work engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents the results of a cross-sectional self-report online survey of 336 employees working in six information and communication technology companies in Germany. Analyses are conducted employing multiple linear regression models.

Findings

Supervisor and co-worker support showed discrete effects on work engagement components (vigour, dedication, absorption). Overall, supervisor support showed a stronger association with work engagement than co-worker support among ICT employees.

Originality/value

This paper makes a contribution to the further understanding of the relationship of psychosocial factors, particularly sources of social support and employee engagement, in the context of ICT industry.

Citation

Susanne Lehner, B., Jung, J., Stieler-Lorenz, B., Nitzsche, A., Driller, E., Wasem, J. and Pfaff, H. (2013), "Psychosocial factors in the information and communication technology sector", Management Decision, Vol. 51 No. 9, pp. 1878-1892. https://doi.org/10.1108/MD-12-2012-0876