Investigating the SDT theory of motivation: A study among Indian banking sector employees

Abstract: The banking sector in India is characterized by intense competition, rapid technological advancements, and a strong focus on customer service. Self-determination theory (SDT) of motivation offers insights into the different motivations that drive employee performance. Keeping this in mind, Motivation at Work Scale (MAWS) was administered among 289 employees of the Indian banking sector and 32 respondents were interviewed, to investigate the motivation factors. In general, the respondents perceived all motivational factors as the reasons for which they were performing their job roles. The study revealed that respondents’ perception significantly differed in relation to the motivational factors, responsible for their job performance. Respondents’ perception significantly differed in relation to motivational factors, responsible for their job performance. It is also revealed that respondents differed in perceiving intrinsic motivation, identified regulation, introjected regulation, and external regulation based on demographic factors. Findings support the existing literature, in terms of motivation at work. They highlight the complexity of workplace motivation, emphasizing that no one-size-fits-all solution exists. Keywords: Intrinsic Motivation, Extrinsic Motivation, Job Performance, Employee Engagement JEL Classification Number: M540, M120, M100, M10