Opponent Process Theory Of Job Satisfaction Essay

Introduction

There are a number of theorists that have attempted to explain job satisfaction and its influences throughout the years, such as Maslow’s (1943) Hierarchy of Needs, Hertzberg’s (1968), Job Characteristics Model, Locke’s (1976) Range of Affect Theory, Bandura’s (1977) Social Learning Theory, and Landy’s (1978) Opponent Process Theory. As a result of all of these theories and expansive research, job satisfaction can ultimately be linked to the following factors: Productivity, Motivation, Absenteeism/Tardiness, Accidents, Mental/Physical Health and General Life Satisfaction.

I will be discussing my findings from the research I conducted under the following headings: Defining Job Satisfaction, Types of Job Satisfaction, The Importance

Job satisfaction can improve productivity – unless the company/organisation is in an area with a high unemployment rate, in which case employees are more willing to work even when they are not satisfied with the working conditions -, employees with a low job-satisfaction are less likely to call in sick as most employees, especially in South Africa, cannot afford the loss of income and the turnover of employees is directly affected by the economic downturn in South Africa.

There is a direct correlation between job satisfaction and performance, employee turnover and absenteeism. In some cases an individual’s job satisfaction may increase when performance increases, whereas, for another individual, his/her level of performance may increase because his/her level of job satisfaction has increased. It once again affirms that an individual’s emotional state, attitudes, beliefs and general well-being play a significant role in the way they conduct themselves and perform their duties in the work environment. 5. The Application of Job Satisfaction in the

6. Conclusion

I have discussed the research I conducted under the following headings: Defining Job Satisfaction, Types of Job Satisfaction, The Importance of Job Satisfaction and The Application of Job Satisfaction in the Workplace.

In order for a company/ organisation to start creating job satisfaction among their employees, they need to understand the direct correlation between job satisfaction and performance, employee turnover and absenteeism.

It is important for companies/ organisations to realize the importance of considering the emotional state, attitudes, beliefs and general well-being of their employees as they regulate how employees conduct themselves and perform their duties in their work environment. It is only by considering the above aspects that they will be able to implement the process of the application of job satisfaction in the workplace successfully.

Works