Thinking of how you think of me: working cancer survivors' metaperceptions of competence and why they matter
Department
Psychological Science
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
3-9-2023
Abstract
Purpose: Cancer-related stigma is a troubling challenge faced by working cancer survivors and organizations aiming to promote inclusive work environments. Research suggests that a harmful stereotype faced by cancer survivors is that the cancer survivors are low in competence. Leveraging the concept of the looking glass self and social cognitive theory, the authors develop a theoretical model about psychological processes through which cancer survivors' competence metaperceptions are related to work outcomes. Design/methodology/approach: The authors recruited 200 working cancer survivors from online research panels and empirically test a theoretical model on how cancer survivors' metaperceptions of competence are related to the survivors' turnover intention and vigor at work. The authors additionally conducted an experimental vignette study among a sample of 133 students to examine confounds concerning causal order. Findings: The authors found that favorable competence metaperceptions were related to decreased turnover intentions and increased vigor through cancer survivors' enhanced self-efficacy, especially for survivors high in need for emotional support. Practical implications: This study suggests that inclusive organizations should pay attention to employees with cancer histories as a hidden disadvantaged group. To protect and motivate working cancer survivors, managers need to create a positive socio-cognitive working environment where cancer survivors are respected and valued. Originality/value: By examining cancer survivors' metaperceptions and showing that survivors may internalize others' stereotype about individuals with a history of cancer, the authors advance the understanding about cancer survivors' return-to-work challenges.
Journal Title
Journal of Managerial Psychology
Journal ISSN
02683946
Volume
38
Issue
2
First Page
158
Last Page
173
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
10.1108/JMP-07-2022-0332