Psychological contract breach and emotional exhaustion among self-initiated expatriates: The role of social support and cultural orientation

Document Type

Article

Source of Publication

Journal of General Management

Publication Date

1-1-2023

Abstract

Self-initiated expatriates (SIEs) face a unique set of challenges associated with working abroad without organizational sponsorship or support. A lack of clarity about mutual obligations and responsibilities can often lead to misunderstandings about the terms of the employment relationship and to perceptions of psychological contract breach. Drawing on a sample of self-initiated expatriates working in the United Arab Emirates, this study examines the relationship between psychological contract breach and emotional exhaustion exploring how culturally based value orientations and social support affect the relationship. Results indicate that individual-level cultural orientation can shape the responses of SIEs to perceived breaches and to its detrimental emotional effects. Individuals with a collectivist as opposed to an individualist orientation utilize more effectively social support from co-workers and supervisors and are less likely to be negatively affected by psychological contract breaches.

ISSN

0306-3070

Publisher

SAGE Publications

Disciplines

Business

Keywords

collectivist orientation, emotional exhaustion, psychological contract breach, self-initiated expatriates, social support

Scopus ID

85148729888

Indexed in Scopus

yes

Open Access

no

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