%0 Journal Article
%T Critical elements in defining work-based identity in a post-apartheid South Africa
%A Sandra Lloyd
%A Gert Roodt
%A Aletta Odendaal
%J South African Journal of Industrial Psychology
%D 2011
%I AOSIS OpenJournals
%R 10.4102/sajip.v37i1.894
%X Orientation: The main focus of the study was to answer the question: ¡®Who am I at work?¡¯ in a post-apartheid South African organisation. Research purpose: The aim of the specific research questions was to determine which life sphere and life role elements, and which work-based identity facets were significant in forming work-based identity. Motivation for the study: The findings of the study will enable the formulation of an integrative definition of work-based identity applicable to the South African context. Research design, approach and method: Qualitative data was collected by means of unstructured interviews with 29 employees representing a range of job titles, levels and demographics in a large South African manufacturing company. A grounded theory approach (open and axial coding) was used to analyse the data. Main findings: Distinctive individual self-definitions and a number of common themes integrating social and personal identity perspectives emerged from the data. These themes provided a sound basis for the proposed integrative model to define work-based identity. Practical/managerial implications: The findings of this research will assist human resource practitioners to develop training interventions and management strategies for the potential enhancement of work-based identities. This will result in a more engaged and harmonised workforce. Contribution/value-add: This was the first study of its kind to identify and delineate significant work-based identity elements for the formation of a work-based identity within a South African work context. How to cite this article: Lloyd, S., Roodt, G., & Odendaal, A. (2011). Critical elements in defining work-based identity in post-apartheid South Africa. SA Journal of Industrial Psychology/SA Tydskrif vir Bedryfsielkunde, 37(1), Art. #894, 15 pages. doi:10.4102/ sajip.v37i1.894
%K Work-based identity
%K elements
%K definition
%K qualitative research design
%K interpretivist approach
%K multiple case study
%K manufacturing company
%K South African context
%U http://www.sajip.co.za/index.php/sajip/article/view/894