Work Characteristics and Occupational Well-Being : The Role of Age

Based on a lifespan perspective on work design, person environment interaction and fit theories, models of successful aging at work, and role theory, were view research on the role of worker age in relationships between work characteristics and occupational wellbeing. We first focus on interaction effects of work characteristics and age on occupational wellbeing. Research has found that age can moderate associations between work characteristics and occupational wellbeing indicators, and that work characteristics can moderate associations between age and occupational wellbeing indicators. Next, we describe research showing that work characteristics can mediate associations between age and occupational wellbeing indicators. The relationships of age with specific work characteristics and occupational wellbeing indicators can be line or non-linear. We conclude our literature review by discussing implications for future research.