Final answer:
D), Job satisfaction between an assembly line worker and an attorney in middle adulthood depends on personal experiences, with factors like the work-content factor playing a significant role. Both types of jobs offer routes to specialization, which can enhance satisfaction. However, historically, assembly line work has been associated with lower satisfaction due to monotony and disconnect from the finished product.
Step-by-step explanation:
When comparing job satisfaction between an assembly line worker and an attorney during middle adulthood, the experience may vary widely and as such, the correct answer is D. It depends on their individual experiences. Research indicates that job satisfaction is influenced more by the work-content factor rather than pay level. Aspects such as the variety and difficulty of tasks, along with role clarity, significantly impact an individual's satisfaction with their job. However, the impacts of these factors are highly personal and depend on the workers' values, goals, and individual circumstances. Historically, factory work and specifically assembly line roles were characterized by monotony and a disconnection from the end product, which could lead to lower job satisfaction. Attorneys, on the other hand, often engage in a variety of work and may have clearer professional roles and opportunities for advancement, which could suggest higher job satisfaction. However, specialization in a given task can lead to proficiency and a sense of mastery, which both the assembly line worker and the attorney might achieve, potentially increasing their satisfaction. Lastly, job satisfaction questionnaires, such as those using the Likert scale, help measure an employee's overall contentment with their role and can elucidate the intricacies of their job satisfaction.