A job demands-resources framework for explaining turnover intentions

Abstract

This chapter is based on the well-known and widely used premise that B = f (P × E) (where B = behaviour; f = function of; P = Person and E = Environment). The chapter will first introduce a number of distal contextual (environmental) factors that may have an impact on individuals’ levels of engaging work behaviours and consequently their intention to stay or leave the organisation. Second, a number of proximate contextual factors will be introduced that may influence individuals’ decision to leave or stay in the organisation. Third, are unique individual dispositional factors that may mediate/moderate the relationship between environmental factors and intermediate outcomes. Fourth, a framework based on the well-known Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) Model will be introduced. This model provides a perspective on the dynamic interactions of the contextual factors (viewed either as resources or demands from a JD-R perspective) and personal factors as well as how these are related to outcomes such as engagement or withdrawal behaviours. Fifth, these outcomes will influence the decision to stay or leave the organisation. Finally, some practical implications for retention are pointed out and suggestions for research are made.