Reducing turnover intention in theme parks: how supervisor support builds embeddedness and satisfaction

Purpose This study aims to examine the impact of perceived supervisor support (PSS) on turnover intention (TI) through the mediating roles of job embeddedness (JE) and job satisfaction (JS), within the context of the theme park industry. It aims to provide a more comprehensive understanding of how PSS influences employee retention by testing both direct and indirect pathways. Design/methodology/approach A quantitative analysis was conducted using survey data from 200 employees at a major USA theme park. Structural equation modeling was performed using AMOS to test the proposed hypotheses. Findings Results indicate that PSS has significant direct effects on JE, JS and TI. Furthermore, the study identifies two distinct mediation pathways – PSS → JE → TI and PSS → JS → TI – as well as a serial mediation pathway (PSS → JE → JS → TI). These findings underscore the multifaceted mechanisms through which PSS influences TI. Practical implications The results stress the need to equip supervisors with the appropriate tools to support and motivate their employees to achieve a more stable and committed workforce. Originality/value This study contributes to the literature by addressing the unique context of theme park employees and providing insights for industry leaders. It highlights the importance of fostering strong leader-member relationships and fulfilling employees’ psychological needs to improve JS and reduce TI.