Work Flashcards
define work
A physical or mental effort or activity to produce or accomplish something. An economic necessity vital for some people
Categories of work
Paid
Unpaid
Voluntary
Examples of unpaid work
Housework
Caring for older relative
Reasons why people work,
High status/ identity in society eg Garda
Earn money for basic needs
Increased standard of living (disposable income)
Make friends and social contact
Use of educational qualification
Rewarding sense of satisfaction eg nurse
What is Job satisfaction
Degree of enjoyment people get from work
What is intrinsic satisfaction
Joy in completing a job regardless of financial gain
Joy in finding it rewarding and having a high self esteem eg nurse, teacher
What is extrinsic satisfaction
Joy in benefits associated with a job rather than the job itself eg high wages, bonuses, company car
People will stay in a monotonous job for the benefits
Effects of low Job satisfaction
Lack of motivation and work ethic
Produce inferior work
Taking extended breaks, dossing, days off
Speaks negatively about the business = customer loss
How does socio economic background affect attitude to work and work attainment
Higher socio economic background will have more supports and the opportunity for education for high paid jobs
Lower socio economic backgrounds are less likely to have these supports so will have lower opportunities
How does social contact impact attitude to work
Opportunities to make friends with similar interest
Loss of work cab lead to loneliness and isolation
How work attitude affects attitude to work and work attainment
Includes good attitude to work
This is attractive to employers that the employee is hardworking, honest, respectful to authority and willing to learn)
Developed in home and school
What does a good attitude to work look like
Puntual
Good attendance
Loyal
Motivated
How do working conditions affect attitude to work
Safe, clean, friendly workspace creates happy employees who are more productive
Less motivated in hostile environment
Factors affecting work attitudes and work attainment
Job satisfaction Socio economic background Social contact Work ethic Working conditions Personal identity
Maximum weekly working hours
48 hours
How working hours vary from job to job
Flexible (flexible, part time, job share)
Work from home
Typical 9-5
How employee participation varies from job to job
Having a say in decisions empowers workers and makes them feel valued.
They will have increased confidence and productivity and loyalty knowing ideas taken on board
In many workplaces it is still not valued and certain people maintain authority and power
How manual work varies from job to job
Labour intensity varies eg bricklayer vs manager
Labour intense jobs less common due to technology
Safer due to technology
How stress levels vary from job to job
Stress caused by high responsibility and long working hours
Impact of stress on work
Reduction in productivity
Physical health affected eg CHD
Mental health affected
Family relationships affected (long hours)
How entitlements vary from job to job
All employees entitled to fair treatment and not to be exploited
Legislation governs this and ensures legal entitlements are received
How technology has impacted work availability and work (positive)
Cleaner, healthier, safer work environment. Eliminated dangers in human error and accidents. Less physically strenuous
More accurate eg stitching on jeans
Increased productivity
Reduces employee working hours
Increase in job opportunities for 3rd level workers
Reduces labour cost for employers
How technology has impacted work availability and work (negative)
Initial cost and upkeep of machinery
Reduced social interaction
Increased unemployment rates among uneducated workers
Mundane and repetitive jobs (ensuring machines are functioning properly) = low job satisfaction
Reason for decline in workers working in primary ec ac
Technological advancements
