This paper proposes a metatheory of work motivation incorporating theories of self-concept that have been proposed in the sociological and psychological literatures. Traditional theories of work motivation are reviewed, and the selfconcept-based sources of motivation are presented. How the self-concept influences behavior in organizations is explained and used to develop a metatheory of motivational sources. Both research and managerial implications of the model are presented.
Scales are developed and tested based on an integrative taxonomy of motivation sources. The sources, as measured on the Motivation Sources Inventory include intrinsic process, instrumental, external self-concept, internal self-concept, and goal internalization. The development procedures produced five subscales with six unique loading items per subscale that seem to capture the domains of interest for each source of motivation. Proposals for research using the inventory are also discussed.
The concept of differential equity allows individuals to have different perceptions of equity depending on the pay referent used. Different pay referents should result in different tactics to reduce inequities. To test this hypothesis, equity perceptions with respect to seven different referents were compared as to their relationship to pay satisfaction, intent to remain with a company, and frequency of extra-role behavior. Findings suggest that the various types of inequity relate differentially to each of the three outcome variables.The authors would like to thank the two anonymous reviewers for their assistance with this article. Requests for reprints should be sent to Richard W. Scholl, Department of Management, The University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 0288 1. COPYRIGHT
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