Organizational Commitment: A Systematic Review and Theoretical Evolution of the Concept of Instrumental Commitment Propensity
Abstract
Objective: This review aims to examine the theoretical evolution of the construct known as instrumental commitment propensity.
Design/Methodology: Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a systematic review was conducted to identify publications from 1958 to 2024 that address the concept of instrumental commitment propensity.
Findings: The theoretical development of the construct can be divided into two distinct stages. First, the costs, investments, and sacrifices stage (1958–2024), which is grounded in the cost-benefit expectations between the individual and the organization. Then, the instrumental commitment propensity stage (1975–2014), during which the concept evolves toward an individual’s inclination to remain with an organization based on the perceived advantages of staying.
Conclusions: Overall, the evolution of the theoretical understanding of instrumental commitment propensity reflects a transition from a cost-centered perspective to one that emphasizes perceived benefits. Notably, this shift allows for the anticipation of commitment from the early stages of employment. As a result, the findings offer a foundation for developing new measurement scales and informing talent management strategies.
Originality: This review identifies two key stages in the development of instrumental commitment propensity and contributes to the early identification of variables relevant to measuring organizational commitment.
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