Expectancy Theory
- Theory / Concept Name
- Expectancy Theory
- Description
Vroom proposed that motivation is a product of three cognitive perceptions:
Three Components
- Expectancy (E → P): The belief that effort will lead to performance. "If I work hard, will I perform well?"
- Instrumentality (P → O): The belief that performance will lead to a valued outcome. "If I perform well, will I get the reward?"
- Valence (V): The value the individual places on the outcome/reward. "How much do I actually want this reward?"
Formula
$$Motivation = Expectancy \times Instrumentality \times Valence$$
If any one factor is zero, motivation collapses to zero.
Managerial Implications
- Ensure workers believe effort leads to performance (provide training, clear goals).
- Ensure performance genuinely leads to promised rewards (follow through).
- Use rewards that employees actually value (personalise incentives).
- Theorist / Pioneer
- Victor Vroom
- Year
- 1964
- Category
- Motivation