Abstract

To date, little is known on how organizational practices and social norms influence self-reported work behaviour and mental health, especially in the African context. A good understanding of these influences can help in developing policies that contribute to efficient and productive work behaviour. These factors are potentially important in ensuring organizations perform well and survive in the current economic climate. This study examined two particular areas that can increase work effectiveness and workers’ health, namely social norms and organizational practices. Validated measures of social norms, organizational practices, extra-role work behaviour and mental health were administered to a total of 330 people in 21 work organizations. Multivariate statistical analyses were carried out. Moreover, it was observed that social norms and organizational practices influenced both self-reported work behaviour and mental health. Findings suggest that different aspects of organizational norms differentially affected employees’ extra role work behaviour and their mental health. Moreover, it was observed that social norms and organizational practices influenced both self-reported work behaviour and mental health. It is important to improve organizational culture that leads to more employees’ oriented practices, improved formal communication channels and increased innovative practices within the organization.

Key words: Organizational practices, mental health, work behaviour, Kenya.