Peculiarities of motivation of young specialists: comparative analysis of empirical studies

Authors

  • Evgenia Gorchakova Institute of Psychology, National Research University “Moscow Institute of Electronic Technology”, Moscow, Russia
  • Oksana Nesterova Institute of Psychology, National Research University “Moscow Institute of Electronic Technology”, Moscow, Russia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54359/ps.v18i103.1976

Abstract

The article presents a comprehensive analysis of the motivation of young professionals in the context of modern socio-economic conditions, based on a comparative review of empirical studies published between 2020 and 2024. The study systematizes findings obtained within various theoretical frameworks: K. Zamfir’s concept of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, J. Atkinson and D. McClelland’s theory of achievement motivation, and V.I. Gerchikov’s typology of work motivation.

The results indicate the predominance of intrinsic motivation (interest in work, professional growth) among young professionals, particularly in the fields of finance, education, and design. At the same time, extrinsic factors (salary, career advancement) retain their significance, especially at the initial stages of a professional career. Young professionals demonstrate a stronger orientation toward achievement compared to older age groups, and their understanding of success encompasses not only career advancement but also work–life balance, self-realization, and autonomy.

The analysis reveals the prevalence of instrumental (material interest) and professional (striving for development) types of motivation. Empirical data confirm the stable dominance of these types among young professionals: material interest does not contradict but rather complements the pursuit of professional development, forming a multidimensional motivational structure.

Regional differences are reflected in a stronger emphasis on professional motives in metropolitan areas and on instrumental motives in provincial regions, which can be explained by economic conditions and the availability of career opportunities.

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Author Biographies

  • Evgenia Gorchakova , Institute of Psychology, National Research University “Moscow Institute of Electronic Technology”, Moscow, Russia

    PhD in Economic Sciences, Director of the Institute, Institute of Psychology, National Research University "Moscow Institute of Electronic Technology", Shokina Square, 1, 124498 Moscow, Russia.

  • Oksana Nesterova, Institute of Psychology, National Research University “Moscow Institute of Electronic Technology”, Moscow, Russia

    PhD in Psychology, Deputy Director for Research, Institute of Psychology, National Research University "Moscow Institute of Electronic Technology", Shokina Square, 1, 124498 Moscow, Russia.

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Published

2025-11-29

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How to Cite

Gorchakova , E., & Nesterova, O. (2025). Peculiarities of motivation of young specialists: comparative analysis of empirical studies. Psychological Studies, 18(103), 2. https://doi.org/10.54359/ps.v18i103.1976