Age and work motivation: : The view of older employees'

Abstract: The study of work motivation has yielded many applicable theories. This thesis investigated how older employees viewed factors that have been linked to the advancement of age and believed to affect work motivation. Three different conceptualisations of age were included in the study; organisational age, chronological age and life stage. By using a qualitative approach, participants were allowed to shed light on this complex area and give their own views on possible age effects. More specifically, changes in needs and values, the effects on goal setting and the development of skills were investigated. Chronologically younger employees placed greater value in their careers and reported that they would continue to work even if they became financially independent. Older employees attributed less importance to their careers and said that they would choose early retirement in order to have more time if they had money to enjoy it.