(motivation) Cognitive Theories Flashcards
What is the main premise of cognitive theories regarding worker motivation?
Workers are rational beings, and cognitive assessment of personal costs and benefits determines their level of motivation.
What does Latham and Locke’s goal-setting theory emphasize for generating motivation?
Setting specific and challenging performance goals that are specific, clear, attainable, and quantifiable.
What does the acronym SMART stand for in goal-setting?
- Specific
- Measurable
- Achievable
- Relevant
- Time bound
What is meant by ‘Specific’ in SMART goals?
Goals that are well-defined, clear, and not too complex to understand.
What is meant by ‘Measurable’ in SMART goals?
Goals that have specific criteria to track progress.
What is meant by ‘Achievable’ in SMART goals?
Realistic goals that are not too hard and require available resources.
What is meant by ‘Relevant’ in SMART goals?
How the goal fits in with wider life goals.
What is meant by ‘Time bound’ in SMART goals?
Clearly defined start and end date with time needed to achieve the goal.
What are the key components of Locke and Latham’s goal-setting theory?
- Clarity
- Challenge
- Commitment
- Feedback
- Task complexity
What is a critique of Latham and Locke’s goal-setting theory?
It is reductionist, focusing only on cognitive factors and ignoring other motivational influences.
How does Vroom’s expectancy theory of motivation define motivation?
Motivation is affected by an individual’s expectations about consequences and the rational weighing of costs and benefits.
What are the three key components of Vroom’s expectancy theory?
- Valence
- Instrumentality
- Expectancy
What does ‘Valence’ refer to in Vroom’s expectancy theory?
The strength of an expected reward, including its size or type.
What does ‘Instrumentality’ refer to in Vroom’s expectancy theory?
Whether performance will lead to the expected outcome and if that outcome matches the effort.
What does ‘Expectancy’ refer to in Vroom’s expectancy theory?
Whether an individual possesses the skills or resources to perform the job.
True or False: Vroom’s expectancy theory assumes people always make rational and conscious choices.
True.
What are extrinsic motivators?
Behaviors driven by external factors such as potential consequences of a task.
What is a primary benefit of extrinsic motivators?
Workers can see direct, observable results of their behavior, increasing motivation.
What is a drawback of extrinsic motivators?
They can lead to short-term motivation and potential burnout.
What types of rewards are considered extrinsic motivators?
- Pay
- Bonuses
- Profit sharing
- Performance-related pay
What evidence suggests that extrinsic motivators can increase motivation?
Yao (1997) found that productivity in Chinese State industries increased with bonuses.
What evidence suggests that extrinsic motivators do not always increase motivation?
Fattorusso (2007) and Duffhues & Kabit (2008) showed no relationship between bonuses and performance.
What are intrinsic motivators?
Behaviors driven by factors such as satisfaction from reaching a target or feeling valued.
What types of recognition are considered intrinsic motivators?
- Recognition
- Praise
- Respect
- Empowerment
- Sense of belonging