Reciprocal relationships between leader-member exchange (LMX) and job satisfaction: A cross-lagged analysis

Volmer J, Niessen C, Linz A, Spurk D, Abele AE (2011)

Publication Language: English

Publication Type: Journal article, Original article

Publication year: 2011

Journal

Applied Psychology Wiley

Original Authors: Niessen Cornelia, Spurk Daniel, Linz Alexandra, Abele Andrea Elisabeth, Volmer Judith

Publisher: Wiley

Book Volume: 60

Pages Range: 522-545

Journal Issue: 4

DOI: 10.1111/j.1464-0597.2011.00446.x

Abstract

While previous research has mainly emphasised the importance of leader-member exchange (LMX) to job satisfaction, there is a lack of research on reciprocal relationships between job satisfaction and LMX. In this study, we not only suggest that good LMX increases job satisfaction, but that job satisfaction can also enhance high-quality supervisor-employee relationships. A full cross-lagged panel analysis was used to test reciprocal relationships between LMX and job satisfaction. Employees (N= 279) of a large information technology company filled out questionnaires at two times, with a time lag of 3 months. In line with our predictions, findings revealed a positive relationship between LMX and job satisfaction both at Time 1 and Time 2. Moreover, LMX at Time 1 predicted the increase of job satisfaction at Time 2, and job satisfaction at Time 1 predicted the increase of LMX at Time 2. The results demonstrate the need to consider reciprocal relationships between job satisfaction and LMX when explaining employees' workplace outcomes. Our findings are discussed in terms of positive psychology theory. © 2011 The Authors. Applied Psychology: An International Review © 2011 International Association of Applied Psychology.

Authors with CRIS profile

Judith Volmer Lehrstuhl für Sozialpsychologie mit Schwerpunkt Gender und Diversity Cornelia Niessen Lehrstuhl für Psychologie im Arbeitsleben Daniel Spurk Lehrstuhl für Sozialpsychologie mit Schwerpunkt Gender und Diversity Andrea Abele-Brehm Lehrstuhl für Sozialpsychologie mit Schwerpunkt Gender und Diversity

Related research project(s)

Diversity Management: Frauen in ingenieurwissenschaftlichen Disziplinen Oct. 1, 2011 - Sept. 30, 2012

How to cite

APA:

Volmer, J., Niessen, C., Linz, A., Spurk, D., & Abele, A.E. (2011). Reciprocal relationships between leader-member exchange (LMX) and job satisfaction: A cross-lagged analysis. Applied Psychology, 60(4), 522-545. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1464-0597.2011.00446.x

MLA:

Volmer, Judith, et al. "Reciprocal relationships between leader-member exchange (LMX) and job satisfaction: A cross-lagged analysis." Applied Psychology 60.4 (2011): 522-545.

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