Leiden University Student Repository

Schindler M., Valentina (2023)

Unveiling the complexity of working together: Goal Core-Properties and Work Motivation in Collaborative Public Services

Master thesis | Public Administration (MSc)

By integrating the theoretical frameworks of goal-setting theory and collaborative governance, this study explores the relationship between goal core properties (goal-clarity and goal-difficulty) and work motivation among employees in collaborative public services. It does so by using a case of the Focalized Prevention Program (PPF) within the National Service for Specialized Protection of Children in Chile. A single-case qualitative design was adopted, and data was collected through eight semi-structured in-depth interviews with professionals at all levels in the PPF. The findings reveal that while job-goals are perceived as clear “on paper”, and job-goals are always perceived as very challenging, their direct influence on work motivation is complex. Collaborative structures involving multiple stakeholders introduce ambiguity, making goal clarity less influential, and goal-difficulty detrimental to work motivation, based on a very low sense of self-efficacy. The sector-specific...Show moreBy integrating the theoretical frameworks of goal-setting theory and collaborative governance, this study explores the relationship between goal core properties (goal-clarity and goal-difficulty) and work motivation among employees in collaborative public services. It does so by using a case of the Focalized Prevention Program (PPF) within the National Service for Specialized Protection of Children in Chile. A single-case qualitative design was adopted, and data was collected through eight semi-structured in-depth interviews with professionals at all levels in the PPF. The findings reveal that while job-goals are perceived as clear “on paper”, and job-goals are always perceived as very challenging, their direct influence on work motivation is complex. Collaborative structures involving multiple stakeholders introduce ambiguity, making goal clarity less influential, and goal-difficulty detrimental to work motivation, based on a very low sense of self-efficacy. The sector-specific unpredictable and pressing demands of Child Protection Services require high levels of adaptability, challenging the assumption of clear goals as the primary motivator. This research offers a nuanced perspective, adding new insights to goal setting theory and opening new paths for its integration with frameworks such as collaborative governance and Public Service Motivation.Show less

goal-setting theory, goal-clarity, goal-difficulty, work motivation, collaborative governance, child welfare

Author

Schindler M., Valentina

Faculty

Faculty of Governance and Global Affairs

Specialisation

Public Management and Leadership

Supervisors

Suzuki, K.

ECTS Credits

20

Language

en