Antecedents and outcomes of perceived organizational support: a literature survey approach

Abstract

Purpose – Riggle et al.’s (2009) and Rhoades and Eisenberger (2002) literature surveys are the latest available studies on antecedents and outcomes of perceived organizational support (POS). Riggle et al. work considered studies on outcomes of organizational support (1986-2006), while Rhoades and Eisenberger worked on both antecedents and consequences (1986-2002). There are seven years since no work has been done on the outcomes and almost 12 years since no work has been done on the antecedents of POS. Considering the gap, the paper aims to investigate the antecedents and outcomes of POS. Design/methodology/approach – In total, 170 studies were included in meta-analysis containing at least one of the antecedent or outcomes. Riggle et al. included 167 studies, while Rhoades and Eisenberger study covered 70 studies in their literature survey studies for the period of 1986-2006. This study adds value to the work of Riggle et al., by looking at the studies conducted from January 2007 to September 2013; and Rhoades and Eisenberger by investigating the antecedents of POS from January 2003 to September 2013. Findings – Findings of the study revealed that POS is largely influenced by justice, growth opportunities, supervisor support, and coworker support. While having a profound look at the outcomes it is evident that POS significantly influence employee engagement, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment; while its impact on organizational citizenship behavior and turnover intentions is moderate. Practical implications – This research endeavor leaves a valuable message for management as POS is noticed to have profound effects on employee attitudes and behaviors at work. Originality/value – This study adds value by offering meta-analysis of the antecedents and outcomes of POS for latest available literature (i.e. 2003-2013 for antecedents and 2007-2013 for outcomes).