Moderating effect of individual difference variables on the relationships between core job dimensions and valued outcomes

The purpose of this study was to assess the moderating effect of individual difference variables (need for achievement, perceived personal competence and role clarity) on the relationships between core job dimensions and valued outcomes (motivation, job involvement and the propensity to leave an organization). The study was driven by the assumptions that: (1) the core job dimensions - variety, autonomy, task identity, task significance, feedback and working with others - are important considerations for enhancing valued outcomes, and (2) the previously reported low relationships between the core job dimensions and such outcomes are partially attributable to the failure to consider individual differences. The results, based on a survey involving 186 summer employees in the parks and recreation industry, indicate that need for achievement, personal competence and role clarity do moderate existing relationships. These results, possible explanations and implications are discussed in detail.