Abstract:

Organization-Based Self-Esteem (OBSE) was defined as one’s appraisal of his/her ability and value in the organizational context, which had significant impact on his/her work-related attitudes, behavior and performance. Based on the review of the existing literature, this study illustrated the contextual definition, structure and measurement of OBSE. Integrating the extant theories implemented in the studies of OBSE, we established the nomological framework of contextualized researches on OBSE. Then, given the different findings in the OBSE studies from Western and Chinese context, we discussed literal differences, construct equivalence and generalizability of OBSE in Chinese context. Finally, we provided the implications for the future contextualization research of OBSE and its development in Chinese context.

Key words: organization-based self-esteem, self-concept, theoretical integration, contextualization, generalizability