University of Central Florida (UCF) MAN4101 Human Relations Practice Exam

Motivation in the context of Expectancy Theory is defined as the product of expectancy and valence. Expectancy refers to the belief that one's effort will lead to the desired level of performance, while valence represents the value an individual places on the rewards associated with that performance.

In this theory, motivation is determined not just by the potential outcomes of one's efforts, but importantly, by the belief that those efforts will actually yield the expected results and that those results are valued by the individual. The multiplication of these two factors highlights that high motivation can only occur when both components are present; if either expectancy or valence is zero, motivation will also be zero.

The other options do not accurately represent the core components of Expectancy Theory. Inputs and outputs relate more to general productivity frameworks, while desire and reward do not encapsulate the fundamental mechanics of expectancy and valence. Similarly, performance and equity, while important in broader discussions of workplace dynamics and fairness, do not specifically convey the relationship that Expectancy Theory identifies between effort, performance, and the perceived value of the outcomes.