Date of Award

Fall 2026

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Organizational Leadership

First Advisor

Dr. Debra J. Dean

Second Advisor

Dr. Bethany Peters

Third Advisor

Dr. Jolene Erlacher

Abstract

The coordination of complex work among diverse project stakeholders in multifamily construction depends on interpersonal relationships. This quantitative, nonexperimental study examined whether mutual respect and reciprocal trust influence proactive engagement in the relationships among personnel working in the U.S. multifamily construction industry. Leader–member exchange theory provided the primary theoretical framework. Data from 144 participants were analyzed using descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, exploratory factor analysis, Pearson correlations, and multiple linear regression. Workplace respect was represented by coworker respectful workplace climate, perceived workplace respect, and experienced workplace mistreatment; reciprocal trust comprised integrity, competency, benevolence, and commitment; and proactive engagement comprised vigor, dedication, and absorption. Results showed workplace respect significantly predicted vigor, R² = .398, and dedication, R² = .318, with perceived workplace respect emerging as the only significant unique predictor of both outcomes. Reciprocal trust significantly predicted vigor, R² = .136, and dedication, R² = .179. Although no individual trust dimension uniquely predicted vigor, competency significantly predicted dedication. Neither workplace respect nor reciprocal trust significantly predicted absorption. Three of 21 individual hypotheses were supported. The findings demonstrate that respect, trust, and engagement function as multidimensional constructs and that personally experienced respect is particularly associated with workers’ energy and dedication. The study contributes empirical evidence addressing a gap in the multifamily construction research and identifies relational leadership practices, particularly respectful treatment and demonstrated competency, as important areas for continued research and organizational attention.

Download


Included in

Leadership Commons

Share

COinS