Workaholism and Organizational Citizenship Behaviors: An Investigation of Gender Role Beliefs as a Moderator

Abstract

In the current study we sought to examine the relationships among workaholism, OCBs, and gender role beliefs. Given that previous research has shown workaholism to have negative effects on many aspects of the work environment, it is imperative that we increase our understanding of how to diminish these undesirable outcomes. One such way may be to increase the use of OCBs, which have positive outcomes for the organization. Therefore, in the current study, we sought to investigate the relationship between workaholism and OCBs. In addition, we examined whether certain gender role beliefs affect the type of OCBs that are displayed, as well as if gender role beliefs are related to workaholism. Given the increased attention on gender roles in our society, this is an important variable that requires more research before definitive conclusions can be drawn on its effects on the work environment. Lastly, we sought to determine whether gender role beliefs influence the strength of the relationship between workaholism and OCBs. A sample of faculty and staff at a large southeastern university were surveyed using self-report measures. Results confirmed our hypothesis that workaholism and OCBs are negatively related, as well as our prediction that masculine and feminine gender role beliefs are associated with differing facets of OCBs. In addition, masculine gender role beliefs were not related to workaholism, but feminine gender role beliefs were negatively related to it. Lastly, the results failed to support a moderating effect of gender role beliefs on the relationship between workaholism and OCBs.