Autonomous Motivation and Well-being: An Alternative Approach to Workplace Stress Management

Abstract

Task or job autonomy has long been recognised as one of the factors that promote eustress in the workplace. However, it can also be associated with increased workload and consequent distress. This article proposes that the much broader construct of autonomous motivation, as understood from a Self-Determination Theory perspective, can provide a comprehensive approach to stress management that avoids these dangers. Strong empirical evidence is presented that the facilitation of autonomous motivation in a variety of ways promotes individual well-being and hence eustress, to the benefit of both employer and employers.