Week 10 Workplace Psychology: Work Motivation

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to work motivation theories.

Self-determination Theory (SDT)

A theory that specifies three forms of motivation (intrinsic, extrinsic, amotivation) that drive achievement behaviors.

Intrinsic Motivation

Engaging in a behavior for the inherent pleasure or satisfaction derived from the activity itself.

Extrinsic Motivation

Engaging in behavior for reasons outside of inherent enjoyment, such as rewards or approval.

Amotivation

A state of lacking motivation or intention to engage in a behavior.

Equity Theory

A theory suggesting that individuals are motivated by fairness in their input-outcome ratios, comparing themselves with others.

Expectancy Theory (Vroom)

A cognitive theory suggesting that motivation is based on the belief that effort will lead to performance, performance will lead to outcomes, and those outcomes are valued.

Goal-Setting Theory (Locke)

The theory that suggests motivation is influenced by directing efforts toward specific established goals, which should be SMART.

Core Job Characteristics

Characteristics of a job that influence motivation, including skill variety, task identity, task significance, autonomy, and feedback.

Motivating Potential Score (MPS)

A calculation based on core job characteristics that predicts an employee's internal motivation and job satisfaction.

Needs theory (Maslow)

A theory proposing a hierarchy of needs that must be fulfilled to motivate individuals.