Singapore University: SCO113 Work Psychology Final Report

This report delves into the realm of work psychology within the context of Singapore, analyzing the prevailing social and economic conditions and their impact on the workforce. It examines the challenges posed by factors such as economic shifts and an aging population. The report explores the concept of meaningful work, considering how individuals find purpose and satisfaction in their professional lives, particularly in light of the changing job market. It investigates the significance of the psychological contract theory in maintaining employee-employer relationships and ensuring job security. The report highlights the rise of freelancing as a viable option, discussing its potential benefits and the increasing flexibility it offers to workers. It also touches upon the issue of social inequality and discrimination, using the Social Identity Theory to explain its dynamics. Furthermore, the report reflects on the author's perspective on these issues, offering insights into the changing nature of work and its implications for individuals and society. The analysis is supported by relevant academic sources, providing a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

Work Psychology
Name of the Student
Name of the University
Author Note

Table of Contents
Introduction......................................................................................................................................3
Social and Economic Context..........................................................................................................3
Framework Model...........................................................................................................................3
Self-Reflection.................................................................................................................................4

Introduction
The term ‘work’ refers to the acts and labours that are required to survive in the society
and the term labour refers to the activity of the human being for the production of wealth
(Standing, 2014). In Singapore, the current economic and social status of Singapore is not in a
stable condition. In this essay, the social and economic context of the country is discussed. Along
with this, the concepts of meaningful work in such condition and the reason behind the work are
also described in a reflective manner.
Social and Economic Context
In recent times, Singapore is facing challenges that are both internal and external due to
the tit-for-tat tariffs between China and US. Due to this, economic policy, Singapore will face
trade disruptions and this will negatively impact the trade of Singapore and it is estimated that,
this newly formed policies may reduce the GDP of Singapore by 1.1%. In recent time it is
observed that, the aging population of Singapore are growing very fast. In a survey, it is assumed
that, by the end of 2030, almost 1 out of 4 Singapore’s citizen, will be at their mid 60 that is 65
years or more and in 2018, the amount is almost 1 out of 8 people of Singapore (Chiu, 2018).
Framework Model
In the society of Singapore, the problem of inequality is quite common and for instance
it can be said that it is quite difficult to find a childcare and to continue her job. The social
inequality is one of the major area of concern. The discrimination also exist along with the
inequality. The idea of discrimination allows to show disadvantageous behavior towards those
who are already under privileged (Smith et al., 2015). The inequality may happen in the matters
of promotion, compensation, hiring processes. While describing the social inequality, the Social

Identity Theory can be explained. According to this theory, a group of people can influence the
attitudes, behavior values and beliefs of the members of that organization (Jenkins, 2014). As a
result there may have the cases of social inequality in the society of the Singapore. The
psychological Contract Theory can also be used to explain the current social and economic
situation. As per this theory, the employee and the organization will sign a contract to specify
exact working hours, compensation amount, benefits and other benefits. In such social context, it
is very important maintain the psychological contract theory as most of the citizens are becoming
older and as a result they may lose their job due to their inability to cope up with the modern
technologies of recent times. So, therefore it can be said that a proper contract with the
employers can ensure the job security of those people (Sherman & Morley, 2015). In recent,
dynamic social and economic situation, the psychological contract theory model is very crucial.
Self-Reflection
After analyzing the current social and economic situation of the country, according to me
the freelancing can be a good option for the job seekers. The current emergence of the digital
platforms, makes it slightly easier to choose the option of freelancing as a source of their income.
The growth of freelancing trends in the modern market is helping the growth of economy. The
freelancing jobs enhances the range of choices in the workers of Singapore (Sahara et al., 2014).
The increasing trends of freelancing in Singapore seems to be meaningful work for me for its
flexibility. The freelancing jobs are now a significant market in the global economy. So I think
that, the freelancing jobs will be meaningful job for me as it has less chances of inequality
regarding work.

References
Chiu, S. W. K. (2018). City states in the global economy: Industrial restructuring in Hong Kong
and Singapore. Routledge.
Jenkins, R. (2014). Social identity. Routledge.
Sahara, N., Bound, H., Karmel, A., & Sivalingam, M. (2014). Identities, Learning &
Development of Freelance Workers in Singapore’s Technical Theatre Industry.
Sherman, U. P., & Morley, M. J. (2015). On the formation of the psychological contract: A
schema theory perspective. Group & Organization Management, 40(2), 160-192.
Smith, C. J., Donaldson, J. A., Mudaliar, S., Md Kadir, M., & Yeoh, L. K. (2015). A handbook
on inequality, poverty and unmet social needs in Singapore.
Standing, G. (2014). Understanding the precariat through labour and work. Development and
change, 45(5), 963-980.