[Ous-lp-rp13] Vroom's Expectancy Theory

[Bruce, Brandy]

Brandy, Samantha, Saretta


Vroom's Expectancy Theory


Describe instrumentality and valence as they apply to expectancy theory and particularly to motivation.


-Valance is motivation; extrinsic or intrinsic. Valence refers to the emotional orientations people hold with respect to outcomes [rewards]. The depth of the want of an employee for extrinsic [money, promotion, time-off, benefits] or intrinsic [satisfaction] rewards). Management must discover what employees value.

-Instrumentality-The perception of employees as to whether they will actually get what they desire even if it has been promised by a manager. Management must ensure that promises of rewards are fulfilled and that employees are aware of that.

-Vroom suggests that an employee's beliefs about Expectancy, Instrumentality, and Valence interact psychologically to create a motivational force such that the employee acts in ways that bring pleasure and avoid pain.


How might you use instrumentality and valence to enhance motivation among the staff once you become an administrator?

-In order to have the force of motivation: Expectancy- High expectations, Instrumentality- Feel that you will be rewarded for your hard work, Valence: Attractiveness of the reward. All three of these areas need to be met in order to have a high motivation. If you want your staff motivated, then you need have high expectations and the staff needs to know that they will be rewarded or recognized for their hard work. The administrator needs to make the staff feel like their work is valued and that the rewards are indicative of the work they have accomplished.


Brandy Bruce

Graduate Student

Ohio University Southern Campus
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