Influence of Organization Structure on Role Conflict

[yafet]

Influence of Organization Structure on Role Conflict and Ambiguity for Three Occupational Groupings
Morris, James H., Steers, Richard M., Koch, James L.. Academy of Management Journal. Briarcliff Manor: March 1979. Vol. 22, Iss. 1; pg. 58


Abstract (Summary) The impact of organization structure on perceptions of role conflict and ambiguity was examined within a multivariate framework. Data was gathered from a sample of nonacademic employees of a major university. A content analysis was used to identify 3 major occupational groupings (professional, secretarial/clerical, and blue-collar). The results of the research indicated that role conflict was significantly related to participation in decision-making, supervisory span of control, span of subordination, and formalization. Participation appeared to be the most significant independent predictor of role conflict across all 3 occupational groupings. In general, the results indicate that the structural variables represent significant bases of influence on both role conflict and ambiguity. The results also suggest that the impact on role conflict and ambiguity of particular structural properties may be influenced by the occupational group characteristics to which a role is ascribed.