Beyond the Bumps: The role of Lifespan Perspectiue on Subjectiue Career Success in the Face of Negatiue Career Shocks

Abstract

This thesis aims to investigate the influence of negatively-valenced career shocks (NCS) on subjective career success (SCS), drawing upon the theoretical frameworks of the Conservation of Resources (COR) theory and Social Support Theory (SST). The study examines the effects of career shocks on individuals’ SCS. It explores potential moderating mechanisms and subgroup differences that influence the relationship. Drawing on the COR theory, which emphasizes the significance of resource loss and gains for individuals' well-being, and the SST, which highlights social support's role in mitigating stressors' impact, this study employs a cross-sectional design. Self-reported data are utilized to examine the influence of NCS on SCS. By drawing on these theoretical frameworks and employing this research approach, the study aims to investigate the relationship between NCS and SCS. Using a survey approach, the authors recruited 487 employees from two private sector companies in Norway and validated the proposed model and hypotheses in SPSS. The outcome shows a significant negative relationship between NCS and SCS. Further, individuals in leadership positions show significantly higher levels of reported SCS. Additionally, the study demonstrates that as individuals age, they tend to report significantly lower levels of occupational future time perspective (OFTP). The current study contributes to the literature on the relationship between NCS, SCS, and lifespan perspective and provides practical implications for individuals and organizations to promote career success and well-being.