The Oxford Handbook of Work Engagement, Motivation, and Self-Determination Theory (Oxford Library of Psychology)

Self-determination theory is a theory of human motivation that increasingly is being used by organizations to make strategic HR decisions and train managers. It argues for a focus on the quality of workers' motivation over quantity. Motivation that is based on meaning and interest is shown to be superior to motivation that is based on pressure and rewards. Work environments that make workers feel competent, autonomous, and related to others foster the right type of motivation, goals, and work values.