Structural Predictors of Underemployment During COVID-19 Pandemic: A Psychology of Working Perspective

Abstract

In the present study, we surveyed a sample of working adults (N = 495) in the United States to understand experiences with underemployment during the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing from psychology of working theory, we examined a structural model linking economic constraints and experiences of marginalization to underemployment, as mediated by work volition and moderated by perceptions of economic conditions. Economic constraints, experiences of marginalization, and work volition all significantly predicted underemployment, accounting for 52% of the variance. Additionally, work volition served as a significant, but minor, mediator variable and economic conditions were a significant moderator linking economic constraints and experiences of marginalization to work volition. The negative effect of these constructs on work volition was mitigated when participants had more favorable perceptions of the economy at large. Findings may have implications for both research and practice, highlighting the importance of assessing structural and psychological factors to understand individuals’ work experiences.