Abstract
M.Comm.
Orientation: Scientific knowledge relating to the field of positive psychology within the South African workplace is required.
Purpose: The objectives of this study were (1) to investigate the relationships between work engagement, psychological meaningfulness, life satisfaction and gender and (2) to test whether life satisfaction and gender had a moderating effect on the amount of psychological meaningfulness and engagement put forth by employees at work.
Motivation: Although research on life satisfaction is abundant within the field of psychology, research within the work environment is limited. Furthermore, research is needed within South Africa to promote well-being of employees.
Method: Survey designs were used to capture a sample from various South African organisations (n = 800). The Satisfaction with Life Scale, the Work Engagement Scale and the Psychological Meaningfulness Scale were administered.
Results: Firstly, life satisfaction, work engagement and psychological meaningfulness were significantly correlated. Secondly, psychological meaningfulness was a significant predictor of work engagement. Thirdly, life satisfaction significantly moderated psychological meaningfulness on work engagement. Fourthly, gender significantly moderated psychological meaningfulness on work engagement. Lastly, psychological meaningfulness and work engagement were significant predictors of life satisfaction.
Contribution: This research created an understanding of employee wellness at work through the combination of employee’s personal and work lives. Future research could focus on identifying what behaviours promote such constructs to enhance individual and organisational success.