Conservation of Resources Theory 2006
Author(s):
- Katherine McPadden
Document type: Encyclopedia Entry
Appears in: Work and Family Encyclopedia
Year: 2006
Topic:
- Roles
- Spillover
- Stress
- Work and Family
Discipline:
- Business and Management
Abstract:
Conservation of resources theory (COR) (Hobfoll, 1988, 1989) is a comprehensive theory of stress based on the central tenet that people strive to obtain, build, and protect that which they value (e.g., resources), and psychological stress occurs when these resources are lost, threatened with loss, or if individuals fail to replenish resources after significant investment. Resources may be objects (e.g., home, car), personal characteristics (e.g., positive outlook), conditions (e.g., good marriage, financial security) and energies (e.g., time, knowledge). A cycle develops where resources are constantly used and replenished.