The relation between goal orientation and occupational withdrawal

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to test the relation between employee goal orientation and occupational withdrawal intentions and behaviors considering employee satisfaction a mediator in the relations.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data were obtained from a sample of 241 licensed real estate professionals using a self-administrated questionnaire. Mediation hypotheses were tested using Smart PLS.

Findings

The results indicate that job satisfaction fully mediates the relation between learning goal orientation and occupational withdrawal intentions and behaviors. A direct positive relation was found between avoid goal orientation and occupational withdrawal intentions and behaviors.

Practical implications

Worker shortages in many occupations increases the importance of the ability to understand and predict occupational withdrawal behaviors.

Originality/value

This study adds to the literature by considering goal orientation as an individual employee characteristics central in predicting and understanding occupational attitudes and withdrawal intentions and behaviors.

Citation

Sims, R.L. and Boytell, J.J. (2015), "The relation between goal orientation and occupational withdrawal", Leadership & Organization Development Journal, Vol. 36 No. 7, pp. 816-832. https://doi.org/10.1108/LODJ-01-2014-0005