Role of Relative Deprivation and Self-Esteem in the Employee Eudaimonic Well-Being

This study explores how feelings of relative deprivation (RD), self-esteem (SE), and employees' cudaimonic wellbeing (EEWB) connect within the workplace. Eudaimonic wellbeing is about more than just happiness-it reflects whether employees feel a sense of purpose, fulfillment, and growth in their roles. Because people often compare themselves with colleagues, those who feel less recognized or rewarded may experience relative deprivation, which can negatively affect their wellbeing. Organisational identification (OI) the sense of belonging and attachment employees feel toward their organisation-has been widely studied as a driver of commitment and meaning. Yet, its role as a moderator of wellbeing outcomes has not been examined as closely. Likewise, perceived supervisor support (PSS), though acknowledged as a vital organisational resource, has rarely been tested as a moderating factor in the link between relative deprivation and wellbeing. This research proposes and tests a model where self-esteem acts as a mediator, explaining how relative deprivation influences eudaimonic wellbeing, while organisational identification and supervisor support serve as moderators, shaping the strength of these relationships. Path analysis reveals clear patterns: self-esteem is positively linked with organisational identification and wellbeing, while relative deprivation is not strongly linked with self-esteem. Together, these findings highlight the complex ways organisational dynamics and individual perceptions interact to shape employee wellbeing. By positioning self-esteem as a mediator and organisational identification and supervisor support as moderators, the study adds to organisational psychology and offers practical insights. For managers, the message is clear: employee wellbeing and organisational effectiveness can be strengthened by supportive leadership, fostering identification with the organisation, and addressing perceptions of unfairness or deprivation.