Dissertation

Workplace Belonging in the Public Service Sector

Sharp, Jessica

2022

Overview

Researchers in the fields of neuroscience and psychology have written about belonging for over seven decades. Much has been written about the concept of belonging and one thing is clear – humans have a need to belong to a group. Each of us has a need to be seen, valued, and respected. When that need is unmet, our health and well-being are negatively impacted. This research study was designed to learn more about belonging in the workplace. Specifically, the study hoped to learn more about the relationship between workplace belonging and employee race, employee well-being, organizational identification, and loneliness. Using a mixed-methods approach, this research study found that employee sense of belonging is positively correlated with employee well-being and organizational identification. While a relationship between employee race and belonging was not identified, respondents did express a strong desire for more racial diversity in their workplaces. Of note, participants defined belonging as the need to be valued for one’s authentic self and having the safety to express themselves. This study provides a framework of sorts for organizational actors working to create a deeper sense of belonging within their organizations.

• Publisher: ProQuest Dissertations & Theses
• Subject: Black studies / Organizational behavior / Social psychology
• ISBN: 9798357546340