Goal and process clarity: Specification of multiple constructs of role ambiguity and a structural equation model of their antecedents and consequences

Abstract

Measures of 2 constructs of role ambiguity (process and goal clarity) were developed. Mental health workers ( N = 402) from 2 organizations provided evidence that a confirmatory 2-factor model fit the data better than a 1-factor model. A path model including antecedents (autonomy, job feedback, agent feedback, recognition) and consequences (job satisfaction, job search behavior, turnover) of process and goal clarity was proposed based on the model of role ambiguity developed by A. G. Bedeian and A. A. Armenakis (1981) and modified in light of evidence on role ambiguity reviewed by C. D. Fisher and R. Gitelson (1983) and S. E. Jackson and R. S. Schuler (1985). A structural equation model confirmed the fit of the hypothesized model and a slightly more restricted model. Job tenure, need for clarity, and job classification were investigated as moderators but did not moderate the structural paths of the model. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)