What characterizes normative commitment?

Normative commitment is characterized by a sense of obligation or duty to remain with an organization. This form of commitment arises from social norms and the perceived pressure to stay with an employer, often shaped by the relationships an employee has with their peers, superiors, and the larger community surrounding the workplace. Individuals exhibiting normative commitment may feel that they should stay with the organization due to the expectations of others or because they believe it is the right thing to do, tying their loyalty to moral or ethical considerations rather than personal gain or emotional ties.

In contrast, other forms of commitment described in the options embody different motivations. A deep emotional connection to the firm's mission refers to affective commitment, where an employee is emotionally attached to the organization. A financial evaluation of job security relates to continuance commitment, where the decision to remain is based on perceived costs associated with leaving the job. A strategy of job satisfaction enhancement does not define a type of commitment but rather a method to improve worker contentment in the workplace. These distinctions clarify the defining characteristics of normative commitment as oriented towards a sense of obligation.