Expectancy value theory of achievement motivation, Wigfield, A., & Eccles, J.The theory is often criticized for being too idealistic - assuming that all individuals are rational actors making affirmative decisions concerning the rewards received from their efforts. Managers can motivate employees by understanding and modifying the scenario such that the amount of effort will relate directly to the amount of reward received and that the reward received is valued by the employee. Valence - What is the value of the rewards that result from the performance? Understand what type of reward employee values.Make certain that the indicated reward is measured and explicitly tied to the level of performance. Instrumentality - To what degree is the level of performance related to the reward received? For example, lots of work may not increase the likelihood of a given result.

If something other than the amount of effort contributes to achieving the outcome, then this will cause a lack of motivation.

Expectancy - Whether a person believes that high levels of effort will lead to the desired outcomes or performance.

The elements of the expectancy theory are as follows: There is a link between the type and amount of effort invested and the amount and type of reward received. This theory states that individual motivation with regard to the amount of effort expended is a result of a rational calculation. Back to: Management & Organizational Behavior How does Expectancy Theory Work?Įxpectancy theory was proposed by Victor Vroom in the 1960s. There is an immediate relationship between exertion and accomplishment. An individual's expectations are affected by the certainty they feel that their actions will result in their expected reward or goal. As such, individual choose their actions based upon the expected outcome of those actions.Įxpectancy theory contributes to the understanding of motivation. Without the hope of a reward, it is less likely that individuals will exert the highest level of effort. Vroom's Expectancy Theory says that individuals act when they expect positive results from their actions. Update Table of Contents What is Expectancy Theory? How does Expectancy Theory Work? Academic Research on Expectancy theory What is Expectancy Theory?

Vroom&#39;s theory

Vroom's theory