Motivation Through Autonomy and Flexibility: The New Psychological Contract in Management

Abstract

Autonomy and flexibility have a key role in organizational behavior, helping to transform how activities are organized and human resources are managed. These changes reflect a shift from a control-based model to a more trust-based, responsible, and autonomous decision-making approach, creating both opportunities and challenges for organizations. This study explores the influence of autonomy and flexibility on individual motivation, as well as how they affect engagement and performance. The analysis draws on specialized literature highlighting the relationships between autonomy, intrinsic motivation, and organizational behavior. Also, the research was conducted using a questionnaire distributed to a group of students and employees. Results indicate that autonomy and flexibility contribute to increased motivation and job satisfaction, while also highlighting the need to maintain a balance between decision-making freedom and coordination mechanisms. Furthermore, the study highlights a strong preference among young people for a flexible work environment, in accordance with current trends. CZU: 005.583.1:005.96; JEL: D23, M12, M14