From social support to thriving at work via psychological capital: the role of psychosocial safety climate in a weekly study

Abstract

Purpose

Based on the socially embedded model of thriving at work and using the Conservation of Resources theory, this study examines how different resources promote thriving at work. Thus, we investigate the mediating role of psychological capital, as a personal resource, in the positive relationship between social support, as a job resource, and thriving at work, as well as the impact of psychological safety climate, as an organizational resource, on thriving and its moderating role in the relationship between psychological capital and thriving at work.

Design/methodology/approach

Eighty correctional officers (NL2 = 80) completed self-reported questionnaires at the beginning of the study and throughout six consecutive weeks (NL1 = 480), yielding a multi-level dataset.

Findings

The results supported the proposed weekly mediated process, also confirming the fact that a psychosocial safety climate has a positive effect on thriving at work. However, no moderation of the psychosocial safety climate was found.

Practical implications

In an environment with social support, correctional officers are full of hope at work, resilient, confident, and optimistic, contributing to increased energy and learning. Also, supervisors should promote psychological well-being at work to increase thriving.

Originality/value

The contribution of this study pertains to exploring the relationship between the psychosocial safety climate and thriving at work, as well as the role that various resources play in promoting thriving among correctional officers.