Telework and Creative Behavior The Moderating Effect of Intrinsic Motivation

Abstract

Telework is a resource capable, with certain adaptations, to act as an agent of emotional well-being, regulate the work-family conflict, and activate key organizational processes such as intrinsic motivation and creative behavior. The main objective of this research is to study the relationship between telework and creative behavior, analyzing the moderating role of intrinsic motivation between these two variables. The model is contrasted with a sample of 273 men and 175 women with university studies. Telework and its time intensity relate in a curvilinear form with intrinsic motivation and creative behavior. However, the curve design does not take an inverted U shape. This means that as the number of days teleworked and the associated benefits increase, the employee’s intrinsic motivation and creativity do not gradually decrease. Likewise, telework and its advantages stimulate creative behavior only when intrinsic motivation reaches medium or high levels. Undoubtedly, telework becomes an ideal habitat for employees with high academic training, as it integrates basic psychological needs that explain the way how intrinsic motivation associates with personality traits. Furthermore, this association produces new, useful, and adaptive responses. However, the effectiveness of telework and preventing social isolation are shared responsibilities requiring continuous effort from organizations and employees.