Task
The psychological contract is a complex phenomenon. Psychological contracts hold opposing views
from legal contracts on procedures followed in the event of breach of contract. Breach of a legal
contract allows the aggrieved party to seek enforcement in court of law. Breach of a psychological
contract, however, offers no such recourse, and the aggrieved party may choose only to withhold
transactional or relational contributions made to the employer or organisation (Spindler 1994).
Using Organisational Behaviour theories and concepts you have studied, examine the effects of
psychological contract breach on employee attitude and behavioural job outcomes such as job
satisfaction, intention to quit, organizational support, motivation, organizational citizenship behaviour
and employees’ job performance.
Rationale
This assignment requires knowledge and understanding of the OB theory and concepts .In addressing
this question you need to critically examine the ideas presented within the theories, and consider how
they help you to make sense of the issue. The aim of this assignment is not to merely summarise
theories as discussed within the text book, but to examine them in terms of their relevance and
assistance.
Your discussion should include appropriate academic references, such as academic journal articles;
which should be used to develop and support your point of view.
Marking criteria
1. be able to discuss clearly the meaning of psychological contract breach (5 marks)
2. be able to discuss in general the effects of psychological contract breach (5 marks)
3. critically analyse the effects relating to employee attitude and job outcomes (10 marks)
4. demonstration of appropriate research and referencing (7 marks)
5. essay written in an appropriate style and format ( 3 marks)
