Meaning of work, organizational ties, and engagement: proposing an integrated theoretical model

Abstract

This article aims to advance the possibilities of theorization about the meanings of work, organizational bonds (commitment, entrenchment, and consent), and engagement by connecting these constructs in an integrative model. Therefore, it is assumed that the meanings attributed to work are an antecedent variable to commitment, entrenchment, consent, and work engagement. This proposition is considered timely and contributes to the theoretical field as it allows identifying possible associations between the constructs, which helps to understand certain behaviors at work. After analyzing the relationships between the concepts, an integrated model proposal is presented, not yet empirically tested. Finally, a research agenda is suggested.

Keywords:
Work directions; Organizational links; Engagement at work