Meet Nick
Topic
Intrinsic and extrinsic motivations in human service workers: what maintains engagement when original drivers falter
Supervisors:
Prof. Paula Brough (Principal); Dr Amanda Biggs
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Psychology with Honours - 2014, Griffith University, Brisbane
- Masters of Organisational Psychology - 2020, Griffith University, Brisbane
- Registered Psychologist - 2020, Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency
Project description
My research seeks to answer a number of practical and theoretical questions that relate to various motivations at work, notably - What are the relationships between various motivations (prosocial, intrinsic and extrinsic) and key psychological states and behavioural outcomes for human service workers (job satisfaction and turnover), and how do they change over time? The ongoing emotional, cognitive and physical toll of healthcare and human service work reveals the importance of improving our understanding of these nuanced processes.
This study employs a mixed methodology, including qualitative semi-structured interviews, and quantitative cross-sectional surveys, occupational comparisons, and multi-wave analyses. The practical goal of this project is to develop actionable advice regarding the integration of contemporary motivational theory into selection, development and wellbeing procedures within the public, private and non-profit sectors.
Publications arising from project
Brander-Peetz, N., Peetz, D., & Brough, P. (2021). Turnover intentions, training and motivations among Australian union staff. Economic and Industrial Democracy, doi.org/10.1177/0143831X211017216.
Research interests and expertise
Occupational health & wellbeing
Psychological contracts, engagement & retention
Role conflicts
Autonomy & self-determination
Career coaching & planning