Holland's Theory Of Motivation

Interviewee 3: SUPARAMANIAM (Male, 52)

Career Theories: Psychological, Psychoanalytic & Occupational Allocation

Psychological: Holland’s Theory (1966)

Holland’s theory postulates that individuals tend to select their environment, occupation and situations, which satisfy and complement their personality traits (Mankar, n.d.). Additionally, this theory is proposed to justify the differential magnetism of environments for specific types of people as well. (Gottfredson & Johnstun, 2009). Gottfredson and Johnstun (2009) explained in a journal article that Holland’s theory can be characterized into three key aspects. They claimed that the job and other environments deviate and can be categorized in reference to the typology of environments. Secondly,

The theory indicates that a person’s motivation emanates from trusting, that they will acquire what they wish in the form of a reward. Expectancy theory of motivation has three main elements. They are expectancy, instrumentality and valence. These elements interact to establish “Motivation Force” (Redmond, 2016). Expectancy can be expressed as the trust that’s superior or greater efforts will harvest better performance. With competence, appropriate resources and essential support system, the expectancy of an individual can be enhanced in getting a task done properly. Instrumentality suggests that if a person believes that they performed well, a desirable outcome will come to them. Finally, valence signifies “value” and indicates the importance an individual have over an expected result (Redmond,

This theory can be distinguished into two categories. They are intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. Intrinsic motivation focuses on acquiring knowledge or completing a certain task because it is intrinsically enjoyable. On the other hand, extrinsic motivation focuses on completing a task because it directs to a divisible outcome such as like, cash, acclamation or prizes.

According to Mr.Bala, intrinsic motivating factors were the primary driving force that encouraged him to stay on with the same organisation for many years. Even though, he was somewhat forced to join Singapore Turf Club, his passion towards his job was developed over time. He stated his high interest in gaining new knowledge and experiences. When he was appointed as an Assistant Maintenance Supervisor, he had no knowledge about plumbing and electrical maintenances. This prompted him to seek guidance from his peers which initiated him to know