Main Content

Lesson 1: Introduction to Work Motivation and Job Attitudes

Theories of Motivation

Many theories of work motivation have emerged. As you may have gleaned from our discussion about the complexity and multidimensional nature of motivation, there are no laws or solid facts pertaining to human behavior in the same way that there are laws of nature. Instead, there are many different theories of motivation, each of which focuses on different aspects. This is good in that they collectively expand our understanding, but a curse in the sense that they make the likelihood of a single, comprehensive theory of motivation remote.

As we will see throughout the course, each theory has something to offer but is also limited. An important part of our discussion will be to evaluate and compare theories and understand how each contributes to a more complete understanding of work motivation. Some theories will be discussed in terms of historical interest, whereas others are currently more popular. For each theory, we will consider the source of motivation, the components of the theory, research support, organizational interventions, and strengths and weaknesses.

The theories of motivation that we will address in the course are listed as follows:
  • Need Theories: What do I want when I work?

  • Reinforcement Theory: What are the rewards for my work?

  • Cognitive Theories: Equity, Expectancy, and Goal Setting: What thoughts motivate me?

  • Self-Efficacy and Social Cognitive Theory: Do I think that I can succeed in my work?

  • Intergroup Theories: Social Identity, Social Dominance, and Integrated Threat: How do the people around me influence me?

  • Control Theory: How do I regulate my behavior?

  • Job Design: Do I find my work interesting and challenging?

 


Top of page