Use the components of Victor H. Vroom’s Expectancy Theory to discuss the following examples — Monica would like star basketball player She has been observing coach and

What factors in these examples are high valence, high instrumentality, and high expectancy? What does Expectancy Theory say are the high probability behaviors for Monica and Tom?

SOLUTION

In the example describing Monica, being a star basketball player has high valence. Monica perceives high instrumentality between attention from the coach and becoming an excellent player. She perceives that hard work will result in much attention from the coach. According to Expectancy Theory, Monica should begin working very hard on the basketball court.

For Tom, promotion to area manager has high valence. Tom has high expectancy that hard work will enable him to become a top producer. He perceives high instrumentality between being a top producer and developing a close relationship with the regional manager, and between a close relationship with the regional manager and being considered for promotion. According to Expectancy Theory, there is a high probability that Tom will begin working very hard.