Innovations and personal change: Patterns of adjustment to relocation

Abstract

Abstract The aim of the study was to test hypotheses derived from Nicholson's (1984) theory of work‐role transitions within the context of job relocation. These hypotheses concern the adjustment strategies used by those changing jobs. A total of 121 U.K. employees provided data at three points in time during the process of their relocation. Measures included job characteristics, personal change, role innovation, self‐esteem and subjective well‐being. Data were analysed via non‐recursive structural equation models using LISREL VI. Results were generally consistent with the model of work‐role transitions. Individual differences in self‐esteem were found to influence adjustment strategies over and above the effects of job characteristics.