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The effects of perceived organizational support on employees’ sense of job insecurity in times of external threats: an empirical investigation under lockdown conditions in China

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Listed:
  • Luyang Zhou

    (Yuanpei College, Shaoxing University
    Shaoxing University)

  • Shengxiao Li

    (Shaoxing University)

  • Lianxi Zhou

    (Brock University)

  • Hong Tao

    (Yuanpei College, Shaoxing University
    Shaoxing University)

  • Dave Bouckenooghe

    (Brock University)

Abstract

This study examines how perceived organizational support (POS) can be leveraged to provide employees with guided responses to disruptive events. Specifically, this study addresses a previously overlooked yet practically relevant aspect of POS—its communicative role in managing employees’ feelings of job insecurity. Drawing on the social identity perspective and research on individuals’ psychological states of uncertainty, we argue that POS can have both direct and indirect influences on the sense of job insecurity in times of external threats. With this in mind, we used COVID-19 and resulting lockdowns in China as specific context examples of a disruptive event to administer a two-wave lagged survey measuring POS, perceived control, lockdown loneliness, and job insecurity. Theoretical arguments are put forward regarding organizational support for fostering individuals’ social identity and emotional well-being under deeply disruptive work situations. Overall, this study offers insights into how managers may develop risk management and organizationally adaptive practices.

Suggested Citation

  • Luyang Zhou & Shengxiao Li & Lianxi Zhou & Hong Tao & Dave Bouckenooghe, 2023. "The effects of perceived organizational support on employees’ sense of job insecurity in times of external threats: an empirical investigation under lockdown conditions in China," Asian Business & Management, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 22(4), pages 1567-1591, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:abaman:v:22:y:2023:i:4:d:10.1057_s41291-023-00219-4
    DOI: 10.1057/s41291-023-00219-4
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