Old Friends, New Faces: Motivation Research in the 1990s

Abstract

This article reports the principal findings of over 200 studies of work motivation published between January 1990 and December 1997. We examined research relevant to seven traditional motivational theories (Motives and Needs, Expectancy Theory, Equity Theory, Goal-Setting, Cognitive Evaluation Theory, Work Design, and Reinforcement Theory) and three emerging topic areas (Creativity, Groups, and Culture). For each area, we summarize the research, identify trends and discuss issues that deserve further research attention. We conclude by examining trends in research in the field overall and considering the implications of these trends for the future role of motivation in organizational behavior research.

Development of a core confidence-higher order construct.

“…over the past decade: little will be found focusing on genuine theoretical development in this area" (p. 146). Ambrose and Kulik (1999) agreed and suggested that, in the 1990s, our "old friends" have gotten "new faces" (p. 231), however, without much new theory development.…”

A Systematic Review on Information Technology Personnel’s Turnover

“…This theory tells that job characteristics such as task variety, task significance, feedback, and autonomy encourage employees to show a behavior that leads to positive organizational outcomes [13].…”

Motivation for Knowledge Work

“…Drawing from the plethora of motivation theories that such disciplines as psychology and sociology have brought forth, organization studies have had their share in adding to the smorgasbord of motivation-related concepts, ideas, and frameworks (for an excellent overview, see Ambrose & Kulik, 1999). Some work motivation theories appear more popular than others for addressing motivation issues with respect to knowledge work.…”

“…Once individuals determine the goals they intend to achieve, these goals and intentions direct and motivate efforts to attain them. Studies based upon goal-setting theory indicate that levels of goal specification are related to level of success in goal attainment (see Ambrose & Kulik, 1999). Individuals must be aware of the goal and accept it.…”

“…The connection between motivation and creativity has attracted much research attention for decades (e.g., Ambrose & Kulik, 1999 (Amabile, 1988). Research supports the idea that specific job characteristics, most notably skill variety, task identity, and autonomy, are associated with greater intrinsic motivation, especially for growth-oriented people (Smith & Rupp, 2002).…”