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This article explores the difference in assigned levels of workplace motivation and happiness between federal government workforce members of Generation Y versus Generation X and Baby Boomers. Thirty hypotheses were tested, and 11 were found to be statistically significant. Generation Y does assign different levels of importance and partially assigns different levels of happiness to the five motivational factors examined in this study: responsibilities, compensation, work environment, advancement potential, and free time. Advancement potential and free time were rated the highest factors when compared to Generation X and Baby Boomers. Sample size was small due to limited availability of workforce members. This study represents the first attempt to explore motivational factors for the Generation Y workforce within the federal government.
Keywords: Baby Boomers, Generation X, Generation Y, Motivational Factors, Utility Measurement
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Introduction
Researchers, supervisors, and human resource professionals have long struggled with perfecting management strategies for employees. The three most prevalent working generations currently are Baby Boomers, Generation X, and Generation Y. To understand Generation Y's employment motivations and attitudes, two ideas must be discussed: (a) a working definition of generation, and (b) an understanding of preceding generations' motivations and attitudes.
Several prevalent definitions of "generation" exist. Kupperschmidt (2000) defines a generation as an identifiable group, or cohort, which shares birth years, age, location, and significant life events at critical developmental stages. Palese, Pantali, and Saiani (2006) categorize generations as those born within the same historical timeframe and culture. Crumpacker and Crumpacker (2007) add that birth rate, along with historical events, defines each generation. These groups develop a unique pattern of behavior based on these common experiences (Kupperschmidt, 2000).
Further exploration of literature shows that two common elements distinguish a generation: the birth rate and significant life events (Crumpacker & Crumpacker, 2007; Kupperschmidt, 2000; Smola & Sutton, 2002; Cennamo & Gardner, 2008; Sayers, 2007). When the birth rate increases and remains steady, that signifies the beginning of a new generation. When the birth rate of a newly formed generation begins to decline, that marks the end of a generation (Crumpacker & Crumpacker, 2007). Each generation has its own set of significant life events. Each generation shares the same experiences, or is aware of them, as they advance and...