The role of social value in the relationship between perceived work dirtiness and the meaning of work in the workplace

In the modern business world, employees' work experiences and the impact of these experiences on overall job satisfaction have emerged as significant research topics in the literature on work and organizational psychology. Employees' perceptions of their jobs affect not only their performance but also the general morale and commitment levels within the organization. In this context, the concept of job dirtiness can be defined as factors that cause physical or mental discomfort in the workplace and negatively impact the subjective meaning of the job. Perceived job dirtiness can reduce employees' job satisfaction levels, leading them to question the meaning of their work. This research aims to examine the impact of perceived job dirtiness on the meaning of work and to investigate the role of social values in shaping this relationship. A quantitative method was used in this study. Data were collected through an online survey, with a total of 232 questionnaires gathered. The convenience sampling method was preferred in this study. Descriptive statistics, correlation, structural equation modeling, and mediation role analyses were conducted on the study data. Finally, the findings of the research indicated that social values play a role in the relationship between perceived job dirtiness and the meaning of work. Additionally, a positive, strong, and significant relationship was found between the meaning of work and social values, while a negative significant relationship was identified between perceived job dirtiness and the meaning of work. However, no significant relationship was found between perceived job dirtiness and social values. Recommendations were provided to reduce perceived job dirtiness in the workplace and to help employees perceive their work as more meaningful.