Engagement at Work

This study explored three psychological components of engagement suggested by Kahn (1990): Meaningfulness Safety and Availability across two different nationalities (Czech and German) and three generations (Baby Boomers Generation X and Net Generation). Results supported the model of engagement previously explored by May et al. (2004) indicating the three concepts having an influence on engagement. Furthermore German participants scored higher on engagement than Czech participants and Baby Boomers were found to perceive their job as significantly more meaningful than the other two younger generations. No evidence for relationship was found between Career/ Parental Self-in-Role and engagement for men whereas results show a positive link between Career Self-in-Role and engagement for women. A new connection between Career Self-in-Role and Availability was established based on the results offering a new focus for further research.