Motivation and Equity Theory

Expectancy theory

A theory stating that an employee will be motivated to exert a high level of effort to obtain a reward under three conditions: 1) Believes that efforts will result in acceptable performance, 2) Believes that acceptable performance will lead to the desired reward, and 3) Values the reward.

Equity Theory

A theory where employees analyze their contributions or job inputs and their rewards or job outcomes, creating a contributions/rewards ratio and comparing it to those of other people.

Motivation

An internally generated drive to achieve a goal or follow a particular course of action.

Equitable Treatment

Perceiving that the ratio of contributions to rewards is comparable to that of others.

Inequitable Treatment

Perceiving that the ratio of contributions to rewards is out of balance compared to that of others.

Motivation Factors

Factors related to the nature of the work that strongly contribute to job satisfaction.

Hygiene Factors

Factors related to the work environment that are not strong contributors to satisfaction but must be present to meet a worker's expectations and prevent job dissatisfaction.

Extrinsic Motivation

Motivation that comes from external factors.

Intrinsic Motivation

Motivation that comes from within.