Testing a model of the psychology of working theory with formerly incarcerated adults
No Thumbnail Available
Authors
Meeting name
Sponsors
Date
Journal Title
Format
Thesis
Subject
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the direct and indirect effects of social and economic marginalization on the career and life experiences of formerly incarcerated individuals (N = 324). This study used structural equation modeling (SEM) specified with conceptual consistency with the psychology of working theory (PWT). Results showed that the PWT was an adequate fit to the data, providing evidence for the utility of this career framework for formerly incarcerated individuals. Specific hypotheses were tested within the model, which included economic constraints and marginalization as negative predictors of work volition. A direct, negative effect of perceived marginalization on decent work was also identified. Further support of the PWT was identified: a) work volition directly predicted decent work, b) work volition mediated economic constraints and marginalization on decent work, and c) decent work positively predicted well-being. Critical consciousness was also assessed as a moderator, which identified critical action as a protective factor for the economic constraints--decent work link as well as the marginalization--work volition link. Inconsistent with the proposed hypotheses, direct effects of economic constraints on decent work and well-being, respectively, were not statistically significant. In addition, criminal background-based marginalization was positively predictive of subjective well-being. Additionally, the moderation effects of critical consciousness were not statistically significant for the economic constraints--work volition link. Finally, critical reflection was exacerbating, rather than protective, on the associations between economic constraints and marginalization on decent work. Limitations, future directions, and implications for practice, research, and policy are then discussed.
Table of Contents
PubMed ID
Degree
Ph. D.