Using a Person-Environment Fit Framework to Predict Satisfaction and Motivation in Work and Marital Roles

Abstract

This study explored whether person-environment fit of interests and values predicted individuals' satisfaction with, and motivation for, work and marital roles. The hypotheses were that (a) work satisfaction is a function of congruence of values and interests between individuals and their work environment; (b) marital satisfaction is a function of congruence of values and interests between individuals and their spouses; (c) life happiness is a function of work satisfaction and marital satisfaction; (d) work satisfaction mediates the relationship between values and interests congruence and work motivation; (e) marital satisfaction mediates the relationship between values and interests congruence and marital motivation; and (f) work performance is a function of work motivation and general cognitive ability. Results supported all proposed hypotheses except that life happiness was not significantly related to work satisfaction.