An examination of mediating processes of work and nonwork support for employee development

AbstractThis study examines the influence of supportive work and nonwork environment on employee self‐development. We further propose that career self‐efficacy and career motivation play mediating roles during the process. Cross‐sectional survey data were provided by 418 employees working in a variety of organizations. Confirmatory factor analysis, structural equation modeling analysis and bootstrap analyses were performed to investigate the hypothesized relationships. Results show that work support and nonwork support for development made unique contributions to employee self‐development. The relationship between nonwork support for development and employee self‐development is mediated by career self‐efficacy and career motivation. The relationship between work support for development and employee self‐development is mediated by career motivation. This research expands the support for development from work environment to a broader social environment and clarifies how both work and nonwork supportive environment are positively related to employee self‐development. Finally, we discuss the practical implications for personnel selection and career development.