Increasing OCB: the influence of commitment, organizational support and justice

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe the development of a coherent conceptual framework that could guide research that enhances our understanding of the factors that influence extra-role workplace behaviors and work performance in health care. In health-care settings, work performance is dependent upon worker’s extra-role behaviors. Design/methodology/approach – The authors draw upon theory and current research in the field of organizational behavior and work motivation to explain the relationships between extra-role behaviors (ERBs), commitment, perceived organizational support (POS) and justice. These behaviors are related to a number of factors, including one’s affective commitment, POS and organizational justice. The influence of most of these concepts on work outcomes has been established in disparate studies, but their precedence in terms of influencing extra-role behaviors is not well understood. Findings – An augmented framework is produced, incorporating concepts of relevance to work motivation and work attitudes. Propositions, predicated on research evidence, are offered. Research limitations/implications – Spontaneous, emotional and/or reflexive behaviors are not accounted for in the conceptual framework. Practical implications – By adjusting interaction with employees, managers can bring about positive effects, facilitating constructive ERBs, which can improve work performance and productivity, patient safety, care quality and enable cost savings. Originality/value – This paper offers a novel comprehensive framework based upon a comprehensive literature review.