Empirically based model of psychological contracts

The purpose of this research was to produce a testable model of psychological contracts by integrating the existing literature. The model specifies: (1) the individual and organizational antecedents of the formation of specific types of psychological contracts; (2) the outcomes and behaviors resulting from the formation of specific types of psychological contracts; (3) the role of moderating and mediating variables in the various relationships. Following proposition of the model, hypothesized relationships were tested using data collected from 696 infantry soldiers from the United States Army. The results indicate age and organizational tenure are important predictors of psychological contract standing. Breach of the psychological contract serves as a moderator of the relationship between organizational tenure and endorsement of particular types of psychological contracts. Affective organizational commitment, turnover intentions, and job satisfaction are identified as outcomes of endorsement of particular types of psychological contracts. The model provides a solid guideline for future research investigating psychological contracts.