The theory I looked at was Cognitive Evaluation Theory. This was discovered in 1985 by Deci and Ryan. This theory involves intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. Intrinsic motivation includes achievement, responsibility and competence. Extrinsic motivation includes pay promotion and feedback.
This theory is mainly concerned with how certain rewards affect overall motivation. For example someone with rewards in mind that are ideal in their mind will most likely work harder to reach goals set. Positive feedback is a huge factor. An individual is more likely to feel more confident in themselves from within if they have positive reinforcement.
Intrinsically motivated people or more motivated by their achievements and satisfaction. These people wont respond well to rewards given to them by their bosses. Of course they will still appreciate rewards like everyone else but what they personally achieve will be more satisfactory to them.
Overall this is a pretty interesting theory to look at. I think that supervisors should really get to know their employees and how they are motivated because if you do you will be able to figure out the best ways to get them to preform at the highest level possible for them. I am exited to learn more about these theories and how they can be put to use in the workplace.
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