The Ubiquity of the Technique of Goal Setting in Theories of and Approaches to Employee Motivation

Abstract

Goal setting is recognized, explicitly or implicitly, by virtually every major theory of work motivation. It was recognized explicitly by advocates of Scientific Management and of Management of Objectives. Ignored in early versions of Human Relations and expectancy (VIE) theory, it now is more openly acknowledged. Cognitive Growth and Organizational Behavior Modification deny the significance of goal setting in theory, but not when they are put into practice. The ubiquity of goal setting in these theories stems from the general recognition that rational human action is goal directed.