Engagement and burnout of union representatives: Investigating activism at the workplace with the Job Demands-Resources Model

Abstract

Activism of workplace union representatives has been considered as an important element of an ‘organizing approach’ to union renewal. The present study adopts the job demands – resources (JD-R) model as the theoretical framework to examine how the accompanying role demands and resources influence the psychological state-of-activism of union representatives, through analyzing their relationship with burnout (exhaustion and cynicism) and engagement (vigor and dedication). Antecedents of burnout and engagement of Belgian union representatives in industry are investigated (N=610). Linear regression modeling using self-reports provide evidence for the central assumptions of the JD-R model. External demands of inter-role conflict and quantitative role overload determine burnout, but can be balanced with role resources, especially support and appreciation from the membership. Engagement of union representatives is facilitated/stimulated by the availability of resources at the workplace like time, security and influence and again social support. These resources play a less important role in situations of high internal role demands (ambiguity and complexity). The practical implications of these findings are discussed.status: publishe