A comparative study on professional identity development and perceived social support among native and expatriate workers

The study was conducted to assess and compare the perceived social support and development of professional identity between native and expatriate workers. In this study a comparative research method was used. This study includes 300 participants, out of them 150 participants were native workers and 150 participants were expatriate workers. There are 170 males and 130 females, age ranged between 19 and 60 years were participated. Standardized instruments were used to measure perceived social support and development of professional identity. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were used to analyse the collected data. Descriptive statistics used for this study included mean and standard deviation. An independent sample t- test was used for inferential statistics. The results of this study revealed that there is no significant difference between these two groups of workers in terms of perceived social support and development of professional identity. Hence, the null hypothesis was accepted. Discussion of the results was presented with special attention to equitable organizational practices and standardized professional development programs. The implications of this study were discussed on different levels. Moreover, the limitations of this study were also discussed. Suggestions for future research were also provided, which would motivate future research using larger samples, longitudinal research, and mixed-method approaches. The findings of this research revealed that both groups receive similar levels of social support and professional identity development. Finally, this research was able to conclude that both support systems and uniform professional development opportunities are vital for promoting employees’ well-being and professional identity development. The suggestions provided in this research are aimed at assisting organizations in developing their support systems and promoting professional identity development among all employees.