The Intrinsically Motivated Nurse

Abstract

Self-determination theory describes the working conditions necessary for the experience of self-motivation. Performance evaluation sessions represent extraordinary opportunities to enhance motivation, yet often are approached with anxiety. An innate desire for feedback meets with a learned response of fear, by both the evaluator and evaluatee. Psychological fusion theory explains the source of this conflict and what nurse executives can do to use these sessions for motivational impact while ameliorating the attendant stress.