Expectancy Theory

Paper Summary:

The expectancy theory of motivation, which was first created by Victor Vroom, has become a widely accepted theory for explaining how individuals make decisions regarding different behavioral alternatives. This paper examines the basic philosophy of this theory - the need for valence, expectancy and instrumentality in order for the theory to work. It shows arguments against the theory and claims that it is too vague to be seriously applied as a model of human behavior. Finally, the paper uses the expectancy theory as an example on a real-life situation.

From the Paper:

"Research has suggested that the expectancy theory must be expanded in order to consider the effects of the time between when the individual intended to act and when the actual behavior took place; the significance of previous behavior on subsequent behavior; and the sequence of behavior (Saltzer, 1981). Hirokawa and Scheerhorn (1986) developed a model of group decision-making that supports general expectancy theory concepts. This model shows how groups come to decisions, which factors result in decisions, and how individual group members affect the quality of the decisions.

Research shows that treating people as a group may have many benefits, but it also has many undesirable consequences (Hansen, 1997). One of the major consequences is that individuals are proven to show less effort when performing collectively than when performing individually."

More papers on Expectancy Theory:

• Analytical Essay # 130611 : "Needs, Expectancy Theory and Ernst & Young"
• Term Paper # 88827 : "Motivation and Expectancy Theory"
• Term Paper # 103148 : "Vroom's Expectancy Theory"

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