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Motivation And Job Satisfaction Across Generations: Evidence From The Public Sector

Author

Listed:
  • Laura MINA-RAIU

    (Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania)

  • Cristiana STAN

    (Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest, Romania)

Abstract

Understanding how different generations relate to work has become increasingly important for public organizations facing growing challenges in attracting and retaining talent. This study examines generational differences in work motivation and job satisfaction within the public sector, using data collected from employees in a Romanian central administration institution. Building on Self-Determination Theory and Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory, the research adopts a quantitative approach based on a survey administered to 92 employees. The results reveal a clear and consistent pattern: younger employees (Millennials and Generation Z) display higher levels of intrinsic motivation, particularly in relation to autonomy and professional development, but report lower levels of job satisfaction. In contrast, older employees (Generation X and Baby Boomers) exhibit higher job satisfaction, primarily influenced by extrinsic factors such as job security and salary. Statistical analysis confirms that these differences are significant (p

Suggested Citation

  • Laura MINA-RAIU & Cristiana STAN, 2026. "Motivation And Job Satisfaction Across Generations: Evidence From The Public Sector," APPLIED RESEARCH IN ADMINISTRATIVE SCIENCES, Research Centre in Public Administration and Public Services, Bucharest, Romania, vol. 7(1), pages 84-95, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:rom:arasju:v:7:y:2026:i:1:p:84-95
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Alina Georgiana PROFIROIU & Oana Matilda SABIE & Roxana BRI?CARIU & Corina Cristiana NASTACA, 2021. "Work motivation and satisfaction of civil servants from Romania’s Senate," Management Research and Practice, Research Centre in Public Administration and Public Services, Bucharest, Romania, vol. 13(4), pages 17-25, December.
    2. Alina-Georgiana PROFIROIU & Oana-Matilda SABIE & Corina-Cristiana NASTACA, 2022. "A Qualitative Research On Civil Servants' Motivation From Romanian Public Administration," APPLIED RESEARCH IN ADMINISTRATIVE SCIENCES, Research Centre in Public Administration and Public Services, Bucharest, Romania, vol. 3(2), pages 37-49, August.
    3. Oana-Matilda SABIE & Ruxandra-Irina POPESCU & Ioana CRETU, 2024. "Burnout And Job Satisfaction. A Pilot Study Among Employees Of Romanian Cultural Research Institutions," APPLIED RESEARCH IN ADMINISTRATIVE SCIENCES, Research Centre in Public Administration and Public Services, Bucharest, Romania, vol. 5(1), pages 4-19, April.
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