Millennials and Centennials: New Challenges in the Assessment of Work Motivation

Abstract

The study of work motivation constitutes a central axis of work psychology, as it is closely linked to commitment, job satisfaction, and psychological well-being. Over recent decades, transformations in the world of work—such as globalization, digitalization, contractual flexibilization, and generational diversity—have modified not only the objective conditions of employment, but also the subjective meanings attributed to work. In this context, Generations Y (Millennials) and Z (Centennials) present particular motivational configurations, characterized by the search for meaning, autonomy, flexibility, and coherence with personal values, which poses challenges for traditional evaluation models and instruments.

The aim of this study is to analyze the need to update instruments for assessing work motivation in Generations Y and Z, considering their relationship with subjectivity, job satisfaction, and mental health. Through a narrative literature review, theoretical and empirical contributions on work as a space for subjective construction, psychosocial well-being, and generational diversity are examined, with special attention to the Argentine and Latin American context. Likewise, the limitations of classic instruments—such as Toro Álvarez’s Work Motivation Questionnaire—are discussed in light of contemporary transformations in employment. Finally, the importance of developing situated and sensitive tools adapted to new work modalities is highlighted, in order to promote healthier, more sustainable, and preventive work environments in terms of mental health.