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Work Meaningfulness and Effort

Author

Listed:
  • Cnossen, Femke

    (University of Groningen)

  • Nikolova, Milena

    (University of Groningen)

Abstract
Self-determination theory posits that individuals are motivated at work when their inherent psychological needs for competence, autonomy, and relatedness are satisfied. Drawing on this theory, this paper presents a new conceptual model explaining how work meaningfulness influences effort at work. In our model, motivation decreases the disutility of exerting effort and paves the way for experiencing meaningful work, which, in turn, boosts effort. We find empirical support for our model's propositions using new data from the Dutch LISS panel. Specifically, work meaningfulness is positively associated with effort. We also show that self-determination enhances work meaningfulness, especially for individuals experiencing high levels of competence, autonomy, and relatedness. Overall, our findings suggest that satisfying workers' psychological needs from working enhances work meaningfulness, motivation, and effort, providing valuable insights for economic models of effort and productivity.

Suggested Citation

  • Cnossen, Femke & Nikolova, Milena, 2024. "Work Meaningfulness and Effort," IZA Discussion Papers 17182, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp17182
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Nikolova, Milena & Cnossen, Femke & Nikolaev, Boris, 2024. "Robots, meaning, and self-determination," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 53(5).
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    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    meaningful work; motivation; non-monetary benefits of work; labor market outcomes; self-determination theory;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • J01 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - General - - - Labor Economics: General
    • J30 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - General
    • J32 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - Nonwage Labor Costs and Benefits; Retirement Plans; Private Pensions
    • J81 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Labor Standards - - - Working Conditions
    • I30 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Welfare, Well-Being, and Poverty - - - General
    • I31 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Welfare, Well-Being, and Poverty - - - General Welfare, Well-Being
    • M50 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Personnel Economics - - - General

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