Public Service Motivation: Concepts, Causes and Consequenses
The aim of the research unit is to create knowledge, which can contribute to the development of public sector performance. There may be a hidden potential for doing so as recent research indicates a relationship between Public Service Motivation and public sector performance. Public sector employees are found to be more motivated to serve the interests of the community, than private sector employees. This type of motivation may influence the way attempts to steer the public sector are perceived. Research shows that economic incentives and command measures can be counterproductive, if the employees perceive them as controlling, whereas the effect can be very high, if the measures are seen as sustaining. Public Service Motivation may influence the way these measures are perceived. Knowledge on these relationships is highly required as attempts to steer the public sector can prove to be counterproductive without it. The research unit combines insights from two distinct approaches – Public Service Motivation and public value studies – to improve the conceptualisation and measurement of public service motivation. In addition, the causes and consequences of Public Service Motivation are investigated.
PSM - subsite
Danish Institute of Governmental Research | Købmagergade 22 | 1150 København K | E-mail: | Phone: +45 4333 3400
