An Examination of the Individual's Decision to Participate in an Employee Involvement Program

Abstract

Because employee involvement (El) programs depend on employee self-selection, it is important to understand the individual's decision to participate. Using an expectancy theory perspective, this study demonstrates that volunteers evaluate the outcomes associated with El program participation more favorably than do nonvolunteers. Furthermore, individual difference variables (locus of control and growth needs) are related to the individual's appraisal of potential program outcomes. The findings also indicate that El program participation is more likely for individuals scoring high on the locus of control (i.e., internals) and growth needs measures.