Inside Looking Out? Perceived Organizational Respect for Dirty Work

Jacoba LiliusQueen’s University2007 March Meaning Meeting

My Research “Program”

Underlying interest in emotionally challenging (and low status/low pay) work

– Why choose this work?– “How do they do it?...”

Mapping the processes – intrapersonal, interpersonal, and organizational – that contribute to positive outcomes in the face of such challenges

– Social support and quality of care in nursing homes – Patterning of ‘favorites’ (residents) and quality of care, reduced

burnout in nurse aides– Today: Relative importance of perceived organizational

respect

Organizational Respect

“Extent to which employees are treated with respect, dignity, and care for their positive self-regard through approval and positive valuation” (Ramarajan & Barsade, 2007)

Importance of Organizational Respect

Org respect is negatively related to burnout among CNAs in long-term care organizations (Ramarajan & Barsade, 2007)– Above and beyond trait affectivity and job

demands

NAs as dirty workers Can respect from within the organization

counter broader occupational disrespect?

Early Thinking

Practically, a hopeful idea Is this idea intriguing/worthwhile

theoretically? Ideas around design?

Thanks so much!!