THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PERCEIVED UNION EFFECTIVENESS, QUALITY OF WORK LIFE AND UNION COMMITMENT

ABSTRACT

The study investigated factors that may predict union member’s commitment towards their unions. In this regard, the study focused on the relationship between perceived union effectiveness, quality of work life and union commitment among union members in Ghana. The study also examined how the various dimensions of perceived union effectiveness and quality of work life account for variance in union commitment. Participants for the study were chosen from three mining companies in Ghana. Data was collected from a sample of 150 employees and a survey questionnaire was employed. Regression analysis conducted showed that perceived union effectiveness and quality of work life significantly predicted union commitment. All the dimensions of perceived union effectiveness (unions ability to bargain for intrinsic benefits, extrinsic benefits and responsiveness to members) were significant in explaining variance in union commitment. With the exception of job characteristics, all three dimensions of quality of work life (supervisory behaviour, work life balance and compensation/benefits) predicted union commitment. Based on the research findings, theoretical and practical implications are discussed. Limitations and suggestions for future research are also highlighted.