The Interplay between Locus of Control and Reemployment

Abstract

Given the negative effects of unemployment on society and individuals alike, research needs to identify factors associated with reemployment. Under the guiding framework of the dynamic developmental model (DDM) of personality and work, the present study therefore investigates the role of locus of control as both a contributor to and an outcome of reemployment. Building on a sample of 538 participants of the German Socio&Economic Panel, we examined this potential interplay over a period of 6 years. Results indicated that an internal locus of control not only predicted reemployment, but that this career transition also fostered internal control beliefs. This was the case especially when individuals obtained a new position quickly after job loss and when their job satisfaction before job loss was high. The study thus suggests that personality traits may both predict and follow from work&related experiences, therewith offering support for the DDM and extending the current view on personality at work.