Intergenerational conflict in the workplace: the influence of work value orientation

The aim of the present research was to investigate generational differences in work values and intergenerational conflict within organizations. Informed by both the generational cohort perspective and self-determination theory, this exploratory study examined the relationship between work value orientation and perceived conflict among generational groups. Data was collected from a sample (N=213) of employees at seven Italian subsidiaries of multinational companies. The results showed that having an extrinsic, rather than an intrinsic, work value orientation was positively associated with perceived intergenerational conflict. Furthermore, organizational support – in the form of employee recognition and retention – was found to play a key role in reducing perceived intergenerational conflict.