“If some is good, more must be better!” It’s not unusual for the benefits of positive work design characteristics to be extolled by scientists and practitioners alike. In this presentation of an experimental study, the curvilinear effects of autonomy will be discussed, specifically if too much autonomy can actually have unintended detrimental effects. Further investigation into the mechanisms and moderators of this effect will be discussed, as well as implications for theory and practice.

At the conclusion of this event, attendees will be able to:
• Recall the importance of autonomy based on major work design theories
• Discuss the limits of autonomy’s benefits in the workplace for wellbeing and performance
• Discuss how employees in jobs with extremely high autonomy may be supported, such as identifying why a nonlinear effect occurs and what type of external supporting structures and policies can be provided

Yam, Cheryl M H
Fruhen, Laura S
Parker, Sharon K