Work Ethic Dimensions as Predictors of Ego Depletion

This study examined positive and negative relationships between dimensions of work ethic and ego depletion. Temporary detriments in self-control - known as ego depletion - have been shown to be detrimental to performance across a variety of situations. Previous research has sought to identify the degree to which ego depletion’s impact varies as a function of traits and behavior. Work ethic is a multidimensional construct representing an individual's attitudes toward work and effortful activities. Its dimensions are reliable predictors of positive organizational outcomes and selected dimensions are conceptually similar to depletion-relevant constructs. The present investigation examined how work ethic may identify characteristics that are more or less susceptible to ego depletion's effects. Results found that work ethic dimensions explained a significant proportion of the variance in ego depletion. Specifically, the dimension of hard work positively predicted perceptions of ego depletion whereas the self-reliance dimension was negatively associated with depletion. Individuals believing that hard work and increased effort are critical for success appear to be more strongly impacted by the effects of ego depletion. Conversely, more self-reliant individuals appear to experience less depletion. These results add to the nomological network surrounding ego depletion and its relationship to traits and also identify additional applications of the work ethic construct. The results also have potential implications for organizations, particularly related to organizational selection and employee workloads.