The constancy of work-related empowerment.

OBJECTIVE

This study describes experiences of work empowerment among staff members at the Rheumatism Foundation Hospital in Helsinki, Finland.

METHODS

The data were collected on two occasions in 2004 and 2005 using a structured questionnaire with background variables and items concerning verbal, behavioural and outcome empowerment. The questionnaires were sent to all (n1=115, n2=112) members of multidisciplinary teams at the Rheumatism Foundation Hospital, with the exception of physicians, departmental secretaries and administrative personnel. The response rate at both data collections was 58%. The data were analysed by statistical methods.

RESULTS

No statistically significant differences were seen in work empowerment between the two data collections. Perceptions of work-related empowerment were relatively strong.

CONCLUSIONS

Work-related empowerment appears to be relatively constant and independent of changes in the organization. Indeed there is good reason to ask whether work empowerment is primarily a function of the individual employee's strengths and competencies.