Personality, Self-Image and Informal Helping Processes in Work Settings

Two personality constructs (self-esteem, locus of control) and several aspects of self-image, e.g., Timidity, Abrasiveness, Perceptiveness, were related to several areas of helpers' and helpees' role behaviours in a work setting. Respondents were 136 nursing staff from a single hospital. Personality and self-image measures were more strongly related to helpers than helpees' role behaviour. Respondents with more self-esteem and internal locus of control were more active and satisfied with their helping roles. Respondents describing themselves as emotionally cold, abrasive, ineffectual, timid, not perceptive, and lacking self-confidence were less active and satisfied with their roles as helpers.