Copyright Holder: This Article is Licensed Under:
© Jarick, Mary, & Jesus. (2023)
Corresponding author’s email: jpbriones1961@gmail.com
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International Journal of Entrepreneurship, Business and Creative Economy, Vol. 4 No. 1 (2024) https://doi.org/10.31098/ijebce.v4i1.1985
Consumerism Culture and its Impact on Employees’ Work Effectiveness:
The Case of a National Government Agency in the Philippines
Jarick Mar P. Gubi
1
, Mary Jane N. Morales
1
, Jesus P. Briones
1
*
1
World Citi Colleges, Philippines
Received : November 17, 2023 Revised : December 28, 2023 Accepted : December 29, 2023 Online : January 30, 2024
Abstract
The workplace environment is not spared by how consumerism culture (CC) influences the transformation of
individual lifestyles and aspirations. This study investigated the impact of CC on the employees’ work effectiveness
of the subject national government agency (NGA) in the Philippines. This descriptive-quantitative research used a
structured questionnaire to cover the impact of CC on the four dimensions of work effectiveness: work attitude,
individual well-being, environmental sustainability, and social connections of employees within the organization. The
data were gathered from 109 employees of the subject NGA. The study found that among the dimensions of work
effectiveness, only environmental sustainability appeared to be affected by CC. Moreover, the study conducted within
the context of the subject NGA revealed that there is no statistically significant relationship between CC in terms of
employees’ shopping frequency and their perceptions of product or service brand reputation, and the four key
dimensions of work effectiveness. This finding indicates that CC, as represented by these variables, does not
significantly impact the critical aspects of employees’ work effectiveness within the organization. This study can
serve as baseline information for developing a comprehensive employee development program for enhancing work
effectiveness and fostering a healthier workplace culture among the prevailing consumerism trends in society.
Keywords Consumerism Culture; Employees’ Individual Well-Being; Environmental Sustainability; Social Connections;
Work Attitude; Work Effectiveness
INTRODUCTION
Consumerism culture (CC) has evolved and is driven by various factors such as
globalization, advertising, technological advancements, and changing societal norms. In
contemporary society, individuals often find themselves in a perpetual cycle of consumption,
where acquiring material possessions and indulging in luxury goods are perceived as markers of
success and happiness (Hayes, 2022). This shift in values and priorities has not only altered
personal lives but has also begun to seep into the workplace. CC remains a pertinent subject in
today’s generation as it continues to significantly influence various aspects of society, including
psychology, social connectivity, and environmental sustainability, making it a relevant and dynamic
area of study that warrants ongoing examination and analysis.
The study will dig into the CC extending beyond the realms of personal life and consumer
choices, which seep into the workplace of the subject national government agency (NGA) in the
Philippines. This NGA is responsible for the management and regulation of the country’s water
resources. Its primary role includes the allocation and distribution of water resources, ensuring the
sustainability of water sources, and addressing water-related issues such as water scarcity and
quality. Like many organizations, this NGA comprises employees who navigate the complexities of
their values, societal expectations, and professional responsibilities. These employees are not
immune to the influence of consumerism culture, which manifests in various ways that impact
work effectiveness. In the Philippine setting, NGAs play a vital role in governance and upholding
the rule of law while ensuring the welfare of the Filipino people. With the varied functions of NGAs,
Research Paper