Evaluating the core: Critical assessment of core self-evaluations theory

摘要

In 1997, Judge, Locke, and Durham published the core self-evaluations (CSE) theory proposing that a multidimensional CSE construct, composed of emotional stability, self-esteem, locus of control, and generalized self-efficacy, accounts for individual differences in job satisfaction as well as in other organizational behavior outcomes. In this article, I argue that, despite ample evidence in support of the predictive validity of the CSE construct, the adequacy of including emotional stability, self-esteem, locus of control, and generalized self-efficacy as indicators of the CSE construct may be questionable, and I review evidence that points to limited convergent and discriminant validity of the CSE construct. I conclude the article with a few recommendations for advancing CSE theory and research.