Journal des soins infirmiers et des soins

Leader-Member Exchange (LMX) and Psychosocial Factors at Work Among Healthcare Professionals

Abstract

Jan Johansson Hanse, Ulrika Harlin, Caroline Jarebrant, Kerstin Ulin and Jörgen Winkel

Aim: The study aims to examine the associations between leader–member exchange (LMX) and psychosocial factors at work.

Methods: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was undertaken at four units in two not-for-profit hospitals in southwestern Sweden. The study sample included 240 employees.

Results: Significant correlations were found between LMX items and most of the psychosocial domains and dimensions. The strongest correlations were found between the LMX item affect and rewards/recognition, role clarity and predictability, and the LMX item loyalty and rewards/recognition. In sum, high-quality LMX was associated with good psychosocial work conditions experienced by the employees.

Conclusions: The results support possible ways for managers and employees to strengthen their relationships and this may in turn lead to more sustainable systems in health care.