Job Quality: Theoretical Exploration and Index Estimation

Abstract

Job quality has recently played a central role in work studies in Latin America. However, development of this new interest has been limited by two elements: an appropriate theoretical framework and methodological tools for its measurement. This paper tackles such shortcomings. First, the concept of job quality is placed in a broad theoretical framework that considers it as a multidimensional phenomenon related to the concept of quality of life. Second, it presents an empirical estimation of a job quality index based on principal component analysis, to draw attention to neglected aspects of work and to contribute to establish a basis for improved measurement and monitoring.