We examined the nature of the temporal relations among the core person variables in the social cognitive model of academic and career choice [Lent, R. W., Brown, S. D., & Hackett, G. (1994). Toward a unifying social cognitive theory of career and academic interest, choice, and performance [Monograph]. "Journal of Vocational Behavior," 45,…

One study tested two- through five-factor models of math self-efficacy sources with 295 college students, supporting a four-factor structure (performance, vicarious learning, social persuasion, emotional arousal). In a second study of 481 high school students, data fit a five-factor model (performance, adult modeling, peer modeling, social…

This study used structural equation modeling to evaluate whether a combination of social cognitive and self-determination theories [Bandura, A. (1986). "Social foundations of thought and action: A social cognitive theory." Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall; Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (1987). The support of autonomy and the control of behavior.…

A literature review examined socialization theory and models; research on tactics, training, proactive socialization, learning, group socialization, and individual differences; methodology and measurement; and research needs. In the last five years, research has substantially contributed to knowledge of occupational socialization, which will…

Career theory proposes the importance of role models as helping to guide individual development. Furthermore, the media often depict role models as essential to career success. However, research on role models as a construct distinct from developmental relationships with mentors and behavioral models has waned. This article makes the case for…

For 178 employees, perceptions of organizational politics were negatively related to manager assessments of employees' likelihood of staying. This association was true only for employees with moderate to strong exchange ideology (beliefs regarding workplace reciprocity). (Contains 45 references.) (SK)

This study examines affective commitment to employing and client organizations among long-term contracted employees, a new and growing employment classification. Drawing on organizational commitment and social exchange literatures, we propose two categories of antecedents of employee commitment to client organizations. We tested our hypotheses…

Three theories of commitment were tested by surveying 92 nursing students 3 times during their first year. The social exchange approach and unmet expectations about nursing careers influenced commitment during the latter eight months. The circumstances surrounding the decision to enter nurse training (behavioral approach) predicted commitment only…

Examines ways of modifying incremental influence. Results suggest that referent power can be altered by affecting the interpersonal attraction of group members. Implications for organizational intervention and practice are discussed, and some possible modifications to the theoretical framework of power are advanced. (Author)