WORKPLACE SOCIAL SUPPORT & WORK PERFORMANCE OF EMPLOYEES WITH DISABILITIES: MEDIATING ROLE OF JOB SELF-EFFICACY

Abstract

This study examined the impact of workplace social support on the work performance of employees with disabilities, with job self-efficacy acting as mediating variable. Workplace social support was conceptualized through two dimensions: supervisor support and coworker support. Drawing on social support theory and self-efficacy theory, study investigated how supportive workplace relationships influenced employees’ confidence in their abilities and, ultimately, their job performance. A quantitative research design was employed, and data were collected from 798 employees with the disabilities working in private manufacturing firms across Punjab, Pakistan. A stratified sampling technique was used to ensure representation from major industrial hubs. The data were gathered using structured questionnaires and analyzed through SEM. The findings revealed that WSS had significant positive effect on job self-efficacy & work performance. The job self-efficacy significantly mediated the relationship between workplace social support and the work performance. The mediation was partial, indicating that workplace social support influenced performance both directly & indirectly through job self- efficacy. The study contributed to literature by highlighting the importance of supportive work environments in enhancing performance of employees with disabilities.