This Article Full Text (PDF) Erratum References Alert me when this article is cited Alert me if a correction is posted Citation Map Services Email this article to a friend Similar articles in this journal Similar articles in ISI Web of Science Alert me to new issues of the journal Add to Saved Citations Download to citation manager Add to My Marked Citations Citing Articles Citing Articles via Google Scholar Google Scholar Articles by Kreiner, G. E. Articles by Sheep, M. L. Search for Related Content Social Bookmarking                   What's this?

On the edge of identity: Boundary dynamics at the interface of individual and organizational identities

University of Cincinnati, USA, glen.kreiner{at}uc.edu

Elaine C. Hollensbe

University of Cincinnati, USA, elaine.hollensbe{at}uc.edu

Mathew L. Sheep

Illinois State University, USA, mlsheep{at}ilstu.edu

Organizational members are often faced with tremendous demands on their individual identities that affect their performance at work and their well-being as individuals.Previous research has been limited, however, by typically studying identity at either the individual or the organizational level. We therefore introduce a boundary approach that simultaneously examines identities across levels in order to better understand these identity demands. Specifically, we examine boundary dynamics that are negotiated at the interface of individual and organizational identities. We introduce the identity boundary dynamics of identity intrusion, distance and balance as different manifestations of identity boundary (in)congruence, both within and between individuals and organizations. Finally, we outline propositions that suggest boundary dynamics as a source of identity change.

Key Words: balance • boundaries • congruence • identification • identity • multiple identities

CiteULike    Connotea    Del.icio.us    Digg    Reddit    Technorati    What's this?