Psychological capital : the mediator between self-criticism and job satisfaction

Abstract

This paper aims to offer Psychological Capital as the mediating link between Self-Criticism and Job Satisfaction. Psychological Capital is a new construct that has been introduced to the field of organizational behaviour, encompassing the four components of Efficacy, Hope, Resilience and Optimism. Self-criticism is proposed to be negatively linked to job satisfaction, with the role of PsyCap as the mediator. The methodology employed to test the current hypothesis is the use of priming to elicit self-critical thoughts that will reduce job satisfaction through the PsyCap mechanism. Results from the regression analysis suggest that PsyCap is only a partial mediator between self-criticism and job satisfaction. The paper discusses the practical implications and explores ideas for future PsyCap development.