Exploring Work-Related Characteristics as Predictors of Norwegian Sheep Farmers’ Affective Job Satisfaction

Abstract

Farmers’ satisfaction with their farm job can have far-reaching implications, as farmer and livestock wellbeing is likely to be intertwined. The aim of this study was to explore how job satisfaction of Norwegian sheep farmers is associated with other work-related traits, such as work motivation, perceived physical work environment, the performance of management routines, and the proportion of their income derived from farming. Overall, respondents to the questionnaire (n = 1206) reported high levels of job satisfaction, and they were more intrinsically than extrinsically motivated. Regression analyses revealed that the strongest predictor of job satisfaction was intrinsic work motivation. Routinisation of management practices was also positively associated with job satisfaction, whereas extrinsic motivation and negative physical work environment were negatively associated. In conclusion, job satisfaction of Norwegian sheep farmers is mainly predicted by their intrinsic work motivation. Knowledge of this kind can be of use in supporting farmers, and through that enabling them to be proficient stockpeople.