Exploring the pathway of a social network in promoting the individual performance of core members of social organizations caring for the elderly: A moderated mediation model of social support and self-efficacy

The high performance of core members of social organizations (SOs) caring for the elderly can enhance the quality of management and services, thereby improving the life satisfaction of older adults residing there. However, the factors influencing the performance of core members and their pathways remain unclear. This research seeks to uncover how social support mediates and self-efficacy moderates the association between a social network and individual performance of core members of SOs caring for the elderly. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from June to August 2023 in Shanghai, China, and data on participants' demographics, social network, social support, individual performance, and self-efficacy were collected. Hierarchical stepwise regression, bootstrap analysis, and simple slope method analysis were used to test potential mediating and moderating effects. After adjusting for confounders, the total effect of a social network on core members' individual performance (β = 0.078, 95% CI: 0.052-0.103) consisted of a direct effect (β = 0.059, 95% CI: 0.030-0.087) as well as an indirect effect mediated through social support (β = 0.019, 95% CI: 0.006-0.033). In addition, self-efficacy was identified as a moderating factor in the relationship between a social network and individual performance, with higher levels of self-efficacy diminishing the influence of a social network on performance outcomes. An extensive social network can enhance social support for core members of SOs caring for the elderly, thereby improving individual performance. Concurrently, targeted interventions should be developed to draw on self-efficacy to activate social network resources and to have a synergistic effect on individual performance.