ON EXAM: WEEK 5: MOTIVATION Flashcards
Work Motivation
a cognitive process that determines the
direction, intensity and persistence of
behaviour (performance) in the workplace
Three ways to classify
workplace theories of
motivation
- Behavioural approach (operant conditioning)
- Content theories (Herzberg and learned needs)
- Process theories (expectancy theory)
Operant conditioning perspective
Theory of learning (rather than a motivation theory per se. Learn through rewards or punishments for a particular behaviour. Behaviour based upon what has been rewarded or punished in personal history. Need to understand environment factors shaping behaviour + current reinforcement contingencies
Operant conditioning: Types of reinforcement contingency
Reinforcement which results in increased behaviour and can either be positive or negative
Punishment which results in decreased behaviour and can either be positive or negative
Operant conditioning: Extinction
Where a behaviour becomes less likely to occur. A behaviour that was previously reinforced no longer receives that reward.
Operant conditioning and Organisational Behaviour Management
Modification of behaviour by changing environmental
contingencies that influence behaviour in the workplace
Operant condtioning: considerations when applied to the workplace
Useful where performance easily quantifiable but issue with qualitative aspects (e.g. application of company values; positive co-worker relationships). Multiple reinforcers on behaviour. Value of stimulus not necessary equal across individuals. Schedules of reinforcement: timing of stimulus
Maslow’s Need Hierarchy Theory
Goal Setting theory
Equity theory
These theories were on the slides but not on the exam checklist so I haven’t made any cards on them. Let me know if you think you’ll need to know them and I can make cards for you. By the way you’re very very amazing, you’re a good person and a fantastic best friend.
:D
Herzberg’s two-factor theory
A theory of motivation with two factors. Hygiene factors such as pay and working conditions which when improved lead to less job dis-satisfaction and motivator factors such as meaningful work and responsibility which when improved lead to increased job satisfaction.
Examples of hygiene factors
- Pay
- Status
- Working conditions (physical)
- Material benefits
- Policies and procedures
- Interpersonal relations
Examples of motivator factors
- Meaningful work
- Responsibility
- Autonomy and control
- Recognition of achievements
- Opportunities for growth and development
- Feelings of achievement on the job
Criticism’s of Herzberg’s two-factor theory
What motivates one worker might be a de-motivator for another. Hygiene and motivator factors cannot be assumed to have equal value amongst workers.
Assumes hygiene and motivator factors will only influence job dissatisfaction and job satisfaction respectively. Not supported by research with hygiene factors alone associated with job satisfaction.
McClelland’s Learned Needs Perspective
A theory of motivation based on learned or required needs. There are three core needs. The need for achievement, the need for affiliation and the need for power. These needs if met will act as a motivator for employees.
Criticism’s of Learned Needs
Use of projective tests (e.g. thematic apperception test) to assess needs. Issue of reliability and validity.
Question of whether need for achievement is learnt
Expectancy theory of work motivation (VIE theory)
Under this theory motivation has 3 components, effort, performance and outcome. There are 3 additional components that influence this theory; expectancy, instrumentality and valence.
