A comparison of the effect of job demand, decision latitude, role and supervisory style on self-reported job satisfaction

The Abitibi-Price Supervisory Style (APSS) study was a cross-sectional surv ey conducted in seven branch locations in south-western Ontario. A total of 154 employees from three functional employee groups-warehouse workers, tru ck drivers, and inside sales personnel participated in the study. This pape r compares the relative effectiveness of job demand, decision latitude, rol e conflict and role ambiguity, and supervisory style in modelling self-repo rted job satisfaction, using a subset of the APSS data. Multiple regression models were used to compare the relative effectiveness of these job-relate d stresses. Consistent with past research, these variables were independent ly related to job satisfaction. The research suggests, however, that superv isory styles, in terms of providing direction and communicating with employ ees, may play a more dominant role in the stress process than is currently appreciated. The traditionally studied role variables or demand/latitude va riables were identified as potentially mediating the relationship between s upervisory relationships and perceived job satisfaction. Further, superviso ry relationships, either directly or mediated by other unstudied job charac teristics, have significant additional influence on occupational stress tha t cannot be explained by the role or demand/latitude variables.