Abstract (eng)
This diploma thesis attempts to combine two phenomena within work and organizational psychology. Firstly, it focuses on the theoretical construct of psychological capital (PsyCap), which was explored by Luthans Avolio, Avey and Norman (2015) and was proven to show a strong correlation of positive states (self- efficacy, hope, resiliency, optimism) with work satisfaction on one hand and work performance on the other. Secondly, this thesis also focuses on Westman’s (2001) Crossover- and Spillover model, which explains inter- and intra-individual contagion of various (primarily negative) states. Within this study, 61 pairs of employees were surveyed to gain stronger insight into the mode of action of PsyCap. Basically, it was investigated, whether crossover effects of PsyCap, work performance and satisfaction occur. Also, it was assessed,whether crossover effects of work performance and satisfaction, respectively, of employee A to employee B will be moderated by employee B’s PsyCap. Data analysis conducted by multiple hierarchical regressions indicates weak crossover of PsyCapand extraordinary work performance (gathered by external assessment) but suggests strong crossover of work satisfaction. Moreover, the analyss reveals that employee B’s PsyCap functions as a moderator variable and influences crossover of extraordinary work performance from employee A to employee B. These results provide initial promising information on crossover effects of positive states and emphasize the meaningfulness of positive psychological aspects and their inter- individual transmission.