Uniqueness of Public Service Motivation

Abstract

Insufficient attention towards the topic of public service motivation among Lithuanian scholars encouraged
the author to choose the object for the paper. The paper starts with the analysis of various theories of motivation
(starting with A.Maslow theory of needs hierarchy and analyzing more complex theories of F.Herzberg,
K.Alderfer, D.McCleland, V.Vroom, J.Adams, E.Lawler, W.Porter ). Similar theories can serve as the basis for
future research in Lithuanian public sphere. Author states, that universal theory on motivation does not exist.
This fact complicates applicability of various theories in practice as raises the question, which theory is the best
one (qualitative dimension). After choosing the theory, another question is what we have to measure. Attitudes
(satisfaction), behavior (involvement) or both these elements should be used trying to measure motivation. A
wish to participate in public policy implementation, serving public, loyalty to government; commitment and
benevolence are several specific motivators, which influence public servant’s activity. It is shown that working
conditions, work content, salary, work safety, challenges, and possibilities for a career in private and public
sector lead to distinguish certain similarities and differences.