Work motivation and values: Problems and possibilities in and out of Africa

Abstract

This paper discusses a number of the conceptual and methodological questions arising from work motivation research by the author and others in Africa. A principal assumption is that cross-cultural psychologists should be able to provide practical advice to social planners. It is argued that a theory of values based on a cognitive social learning perspective provides a basis on which a search for cross-cultural universals could be pursued alongside a clearer delineation of factors influencing work motivation in particular cultures. As much of the research in work motivation continues to utilize instruments which tend to replicate factors found in Western countries, alternatives which reveal indigenous value constructs are discussed. These include an unstructured inventory devised by the author. It is concluded that further significant advances depend on a greater degree of cooperation among researchers to carry out large-scale validation studies, and the involvement of local psychologists.