An Assessment of the Predictors and Consequences of Workaholism using Hierarchical Models

Abstract

Workaholism is one of the least researched phenomena in organizational behavior in Pakistan. Since it is considered akin to other forms of addiction, this study attempted to define, measure and reinforce the notion of workaholism within the addiction framework. This was done in order to address some of the gaps in previous researches. Using the trait theory and social learning paradigm, big 5 personality traits and social contagion were hypothesized as the predictors of workaholism. Similarly, drawing from the literature on well-being, counterproductive work behavior was postulated as a consequence of workaholism having a negative impact on employee well-being in the form of job burnout. A multi-stage sampling approach was employed. The analysis sample constituted a total of 1467 faculty members serving in the higher education institutions all over Pakistan. The results revealed that the traits of conscientiousness, neuroticism, and extraversion, as well as social contagion, were significant predictors of workaholism. At the same time, workaholism was found to be a significant predictor of counterproductive work behavior and, via the indirect effect, of job burnout. This lent support to the addiction framework. One of the major contributions of this study included the use of formative second-order hierarchical models.