What predicts flow at work? theoretical and empirical perspectives

E. Demerouti, A. Mäkikangas

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterAcademicpeer-review

8 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the experience of flow at work. It exemplifies the nature of the subjective experience of work-related flow. Most of the research on flow has focused on voluntary leisure and sporting activities. However, research has also shown that the experience of flow occurs in work-related activities. Csikszentmihalyi has defined flow as a state in which people are so deeply involved in an activity that nothing else seems to matter. Both qualitative and quantitative research on flow across a diversity of work and leisure activities has indicated that optimal experience consists of six core components. In the work context, Bakker has operationalized the flow experience with three dimensions: absorption, enjoyment, and intrinsic motivation. Work-related flow, particularly as operationalized by the WOrk-reLated Flow inventory (WOLF), has many conceptual similarities with the concept of work engagement. Work engagement is defined as "a positive, fulfilling, work-related state of mind that is characterized by vigor, dedication, and absorption".
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationFlow at work
Subtitle of host publicationmeasurement and implications
EditorsC. Fullagar, A. Delle Fave
Place of PublicationAbingdon, Oxon
PublisherRoutledge Taylor & Francis Group
Chapter4
Pages66-80
Number of pages15
ISBN (Electronic)9781315871585
ISBN (Print)978-1-84872-277-1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 16 Mar 2017

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