Assessing the Role of Job-Search Self-Efficacy in the Relationship between Esteem Support and Job-Search Behavior among Two Populations of Job Seekers

Abstract

Two studies are reported that test a model in which job-search self-efficacy mediates the relationship between received esteem support and job-search behavior. Esteem support refers to messages intended to enhance how recipients feel about themselves and their attributes, abilities, and/or accomplishments. New-entrant job seekers (N = 208, Study 1), as well as unemployed, underemployed, and/or displaced workers (N = 254, Study 2) completed a survey assessing their reception of esteem support messages, job-search self-efficacy, and job-search behavior. Both studies revealed that job-search self-efficacy mediated the relationship between esteem support and job-search behavior, but the effects were more pronounced among new-entrant job seekers.

Keywords:

• Employment
• Job Loss
• Self-Esteem
• Social Support

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Amanda J. Holmstrom

Amanda J. Holmstrom (PhD, Purdue University) is an Associate Professor in the Department of Communication at Michigan State University.

Jessica C. Russell

Jessica C. Russell (PhD, Michigan State University) is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication Studies at California State University at Long Beach.

David D. Clare

David D. Clare (PhD, Michigan State University) is a researcher at Barbaricum LLC.