Abstract

Research shows that women face various demands and barriers that have a negative impact on their job experiences and job satisfaction. At the same time increasing numbers of women are entering the labor force. Studies regarding the factors that influence the job satisfaction of women in South Africa are scarce and the role of self-directed learning in predicting job satisfaction has received limited attention. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of job demands, job resources and self-directed learning on the job satisfaction of South African women. The results of hierarchical multiple regression analyses showed that self-directed learning explained a significant portion of the variance in job satisfaction, above and beyond the variance that was explained by job demands and resources. Self-directed learners seem to have several characteristics that facilitate adjustment to career challenges. This research has implications for organizations that strive to enhance job satisfaction in their employees.

Key words: Career worries, job demands-resources model, job insecurity, job satisfaction, self-directed learning, work drive, work-life balance, work involvement, work relationships.