Motivation, Knowledge Sharing, and Need Satisfaction in Groups

Research confirms that there are many forms of motivation associated with various organizational outcomes, and that there are various ways in which motivation can be supported. Self-determination theory shows that autonomous motivation is related to many important organizational outcomes and that the support of basic psychological needs helps to develop the motivations even further. However, additional understanding on whether different types of motivation may be related to important organizational outcomes more than others is needed. In addition, more understanding of the processes of basic psychological need satisfaction and work motivation needs to be gained. Therefore, we have examined relations between different types of motivation and outcomes and ways in which group members may increase their need satisfaction, and autonomous motivation. Hence, this symposium aims at enhancing our understanding of motivation and need satisfaction of individuals and groups in organizations. In this symposium, three empirical papers will be presented, using different methods and samples in different contexts, to explore (1) knowledge sharing motivation and (2) how group members can enhance satisfaction of their basic needs and autonomous motivation. Following the presentations, Anja Van den Broeck, a major contributor in work motivation, will serve as the discussant; to provide both theoretical and practical suggestions and lead an interactive group discussion.