Cultivation and activation? examining the role of basic needs satisfaction in public service motivation research

There has been growing academic interest in integrating Public Service Motivation (PSM) theory with Self-Determination Theory. However, the role of basic psychological needs in PSM research remains complex. This study investigates whether Basic Need Satisfaction (BNS) predicts or moderates the relationship between PSM and employee job outcomes. Using a survey of Korean police officers, the study explores two approaches: BNS as an antecedent and BNS as a moderator. The results reveal that these two roles are not mutually exclusive; BNS functions both as an antecedent and a moderator. Public organizations and managers aiming to enhance performance through PSM should prioritize practices that fulfill employees’ basic psychological needs.