Employee Support Through HR Practices in Crisis

This conceptual study investigates how human resource management practice can provide support to employees during a time of crisis. Using a structured literature review, this research determines important HR practice used during uncertain environments, such as economic and health crises, and then examines these practices through the lens of Basic Psychological Needs Theory. This theory posits that autonomy, competence, and belongingness are essential for employee wellbeing and motivation. The research then suggests a theoretical model that maps HR practice to these three psychological needs to potentially increase employee resilience, engagement, and adaptability. The research enhances the theoretical links between HRM and motivation theories and provides practical implications for HR decision makers working in times of crisis. The chapter also outlines the limitations and implications for future empirical investigation.