A TEST OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN AFFECTIVE AND CONTINUANCE COMMITMENT USING NONRECURSIVE MODELS

Confirmatory factor analysis was used to assess the factor structure o f Meyer & Allen's (1984) commitment scales. Results supported a three- factor solution which included a bidimensional continuance commitment construct. Causal links between affective commitment and the two emerg ent dimensions of continuance commitment (personal sacrifices and low alternatives) were then studied with non-recursive models. Only one si gnificant relationship emerged-the sacrifice component of continuance commitment had a positive effect on affective commitment. This finding was interpreted from a self-justification perspective.