Work happiness among teachers: A day reconstruction study on the role of self-concordance

Self-concordant work motivation arises from one's authentic choices, personal values, and interests. In the present study, we investigated whether self-concordant motivation may fluctuate from one work-related task to the next. On the basis of self-determination theory, we hypothesized that mom...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of school psychology 2013-12, Vol.51 (6), p.735-750
Main Authors: Tadić, Maja, Bakker, Arnold B., Oerlemans, Wido G.M.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adult
Aged
Day reconstruction method
Faculty
Female
Happiness
Humans
Job demands
Male
Middle Aged
Models, Psychological
Motivation - physiology
Personal Satisfaction
Self Concept
Self-concordance
Self-determination theory
Work - psychology
Young Adult
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Summary:Self-concordant work motivation arises from one's authentic choices, personal values, and interests. In the present study, we investigated whether self-concordant motivation may fluctuate from one work-related task to the next. On the basis of self-determination theory, we hypothesized that momentary self-concordance buffers the negative impact of momentary work demands on momentary happiness. We developed a modified version of the day reconstruction method to investigate self-concordance, work demands, and happiness during specific work-related tasks on a within-person and within-day level. In total, 132 teachers completed a daily diary on three consecutive work days as well as a background questionnaire. The daily diary resulted in 792 reported work activities and activity-related work demands, self-concordance, and happiness scores. Multilevel analysis showed that—for most work activities—state self-concordant motivation buffered the negative association of work demands with happiness. These findings add to the literature on motivation and well-being by showing that the levels of self-concordance and happiness experienced by employees vary significantly on a within-day level and show a predictable pattern. We discuss theoretical and practical implications of the findings to increase employees' well-being.
ISSN:0022-4405
1873-3506
DOI:10.1016/j.jsp.2013.07.002