Accentuating the positive: How and when occupational identity threat leads to job crafting and positive outcomes

Abstract

Drawing on the identity literature and job crafting research, the present work investigates how occupational identity threat is positively related to individual job crafting (i.e., approach crafting and avoidance crafting) and how approach (or avoidance) crafting transforms occupational identity threat into increased job engagement and improved job performance. We also propose that the regulatory focus of individuals would moderate these relationships. After conducting two field studies, Study 1, which used data from 211 matched employee–supervisor pairs at an aluminium manufacturing company, found that occupational identity threat had a positive effect on approach and avoidance crafting. The results also showed further support for the moderating effect of prevention focus and a mediating effect of approach crafting in transferring the effect of occupational identity threat in a positive manner (i.e., higher job engagement and performance). In Study 2, we replicated the findings of Study 1 and found further evidence for the moderating effect of promotion focus and a moderated mediating effect of approach crafting on job engagement. Theoretical and practical implications of this research are discussed.