Abstract

Background: Psychological Capital (PsyCap) is a core construct in the literature of positive psychology. However, there is considerably less evidence on its positive effects on Employee Attitudes (EA) and Employee Performance (EP).

Purpose: The objective of this study was to provide empirical evidence on the relationships between PsyCap, EA and EP. This paper also seeks to present the theoretical development of PsyCap, Job Satisfaction (JS), Organizational Commitment (OC), EP and their application to employees at Teaching Hospitals practices.

Research Design/Methodology: To assess positive PsyCap refer to (PsyCap Questionnaire, Luthans et al., 2006), JS (JS Survey, Judge & Bono, 2001; and Best & Thurston, 2004), OC (OC Questionnaire, Porter et al., 1974; and Trimble, 2006). EP (EP Questionnaire, Black & Porter, 1991; and Caligiuri, 1997). Out of the 357 questionnaires that were distributed to employees at Teaching Hospitals in Egypt, 315 usable questionnaires were returned, a response rate of 88%.

Findings: The results indicated the expected significant positive relationships between PsyCap, JS, OC and EP. In other words, self-efficacy, optimism, hope and resilience significantly correlated with EA and EP. The results also supported the hypothesized model. The study findings support the view that PsyCap, JS, OC, and EP are related constructs.

Practical Implications: The study suggests that Teaching Hospitals in Egypt can improve EA and EP by influencing its PsyCap, specifically, by developing self-efficacy, optimism, hope and resilience. The study provided that it is necessary to pay more attention to the dimensions of PsyCap as a key source for organizations to enhance the competitive advantage which is of prime significance for EA and EP.

Originality/Value: Preliminary evidence of the psychometric properties of the PCQ-24, which measures the construct of PsyCap (hope, self-efficacy, resilience and optimism) on an Egyptian sample, was provided in this study. Also, this study discusses the additional studies essential for further development of research base on organizational and management effectiveness.

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