Why the long hours? Job demands and social exchange dynamics

Abstract

BACKGROUND: This study investigates the determinants of long working hours from the perspectives of the demand-control model [Karasek, 1979] and social exchange theory [Blau, 1964; Goulder, 1960]. OBJECTIVE: These two theoretical perspectives are tested to understand why individuals work longer (or shorter) hours. METHODS: The hypotheses are tested with a representative sample of 1,604 employed Canadians. RESULTS: In line with Karasek's model, the results support that high job demands are positively associated with longer work hours. The social exchange perspective would predict a positive association between skill discretion and work hours. This hypothesis was supported for individuals with a higher education degree. Finally, the results support a positive association between active jobs and longer work hours. CONCLUSIONS: Our research suggests that job demands and social exchange dynamics need to be considered together in the explanation of longer (or shorter) work hours.

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