Trust in a virtual workplace: A multi-level model examining implications of virtualness and the link to performance and commitment

John J Elshaw, Purdue University

Abstract

This dissertation introduces a theory and presents a model that examines virtualness as an antecedent to key individual and organizational outcomes. In the model, virtualness is examined as a predictor of both trust and self-efficacy with performance and affective commitment as key outcomes. I examine a multi-dimensional view of trust and whether it can predict different cognitive and affective outcomes. Additionally, I introduce a multi-level model which incorporates justice climate level as a group-level (level 2) moderator on the individual-level relationships. This dissertation attempts to resolve gaps and clear up inconsistencies in the virtualness literature as well as enhance our understanding of trust and self-efficacy by examining organization-level effects on individual-level relationships. The multi-level model of virtualness, self-efficacy, and trust is examined in the context of the United States Air Force, where individuals, groups, and squadrons experience a large variance in virtualness, and where trust and self-efficacy are critical to mission accomplishment.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Alge, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Management

COinS