Dignity at Work: A Critical Conceptual Framework and Research Agenda

This article provides a narrative review of the literature on dignity at work with a focus on social justice perspectives, which informs the development of a conceptual framework to guide future theory, research, practice, and public policies. Dignity at work encompasses earned and inherent dignity; the capacity for autonomous action; the affirmation of diversity; access to decent and humane work conditions; freedom to organize and resist; and opportunities for contribution, meaningfulness, and achievement. The literature review highlighted the diverse disciplinary and conceptual frameworks that inform how dignity at work is defined and understood along with a review of relevant empirical literature exploring the nature, antecedents, and outcomes of dignity at work. We presented a critical conceptual model that includes macro-level, work-based and relational conditions, systems of oppression, and resistance as the context for understanding dignity at work and its outcomes. The paper concluded with directions for future research and implications for practice and public policy.