Effects of proximal and distal variables on internalization, identification and compliance: Modeling of the organizational commitment process

The following research puts forward and confirms the first model, rested th rough structural equation modeling, of distal and proximal antecedents of t he three organisational commitment (OC) bases that were assessed with a sca le developed by Pecker (1992): internalization, identification, and complia nce. An empirical study was conducted throughout 22 health establishments w ithin the province of Quebec using a proportional stratified sampling metho d. The results, obtained from a usable sample of 3037 subjects from all occ upational categories, allowed for the identification of the most appropriat e model among those tested. This model suggests a structure where the influ ence of the two distal variables (Work involvement and Locus of control) on the three dimensions of OC is totally exerted by the intervention of proxi mal variables (Perceived role states, Perceived supervisor's leadership, Jo b involvement, Perceived organizational characteristics). These two latter proximal variables predicted the most variance of the three OC bases, espec ially with respect to internalization and identification. In addition to th ose similar patterns of relationship, these two bases highly correlate, wit h one another thereby compromising their empirical distinction. Regarding t he third OC base (compliance), it can be distinguished from the other two i n terms of intercorrelations as well as in terms of its relationship with t he model's antecedents. Finally the moderating effect of occupational categ ory was non significant since the model can be applied as well to clinical and nursing personnel as to non clinical personnel. The evidence is discuss ed with regards to promising future research and implications for managemen t aiming at increasing the OC's level within contemporary organization conc erned with the contribution of their human resources' potential.