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Motivation in physically demanding military roles: A qualitative study using self-determination theory
Annika Öhrner Lindén1, Marcus Börjesson1
1Department of Leadership and Command and Control, Swedish Defence University, Stockholm, Sweden.
Summary
Military motivation is a dynamic, relational process influenced by goal orientation and feedback quality. Responsive reciprocity in feedback is key for sustained motivation and need satisfaction in demanding roles.
Area of Science:
- Organizational Psychology
- Military Science
- Social Psychology
Background:
- Motivation in demanding environments is complex.
- Self-Determination Theory (SDT) provides a framework for understanding motivation.
- Hierarchical structures and physical demands in the military influence psychological processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine how motivational processes are shaped by goal orientation and feedback in the Swedish Armed Forces.
- To explore the relational dynamics of feedback in physically demanding military contexts.
- To apply Self-Determination Theory to understand military motivation.
Main Methods:
- Semi-structured interviews with fifteen women in the Swedish Armed Forces.
- Abductive thematic analysis informed by Self-Determination Theory.
- Qualitative research exploring experiences in physically demanding roles.
Main Results:
- Motivation is a dynamic, relational process, not a static individual state.
- Feedback's relational quality (sender legitimacy, tone, timing, intent) is crucial for motivation.
- The concept of 'responsive reciprocity' explains how feedback influences motivation through sender-recipient interactions.
Conclusions:
- Feedback's impact on motivation depends on perceived sender competence, respect, and trustworthiness.
- Responsive reciprocity fosters motivation by enabling feedback acceptance and effort translation.
- Findings highlight the enactment of SDT needs (autonomy, competence, relatedness) in military settings and inform leadership practices.
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