Application of the Self-Determination Theory in Explaining Some Aspects of Seafarers' Work-Related Well-Being

Abstract

The goal of the study was to determine the extent to which
seafarers' work and life satisfaction can be explained by the
six aspects of work motivation based on the Self-Determination Theory. The research was conducted on a
convenience sample of Croatian seafarers (N = 286),
ranging from 18 to 65 years. The applied questionnaire
consisted of sociodemographic and work characteristics
questions, and measures of job satisfaction, life satisfaction,
and six dimensions of work motivation. The results of
regression analyses showed that two dimensions of work
motivation with the highest level of self-determination
contribute positively to the explanation of job satisfaction and
life satisfaction: intrinsic motivation and integrated
regulation. Furthermore, external regulation contributes
positively to the explanation of life satisfaction, while
amotivation has proven to be a significant negative predictor
of job satisfaction. The results indicate the importance of
developing and encouraging autonomy in work motivation in
seafarers, but also the specifics of work motivation that are
associated with the socio-economic context of the maritime
profession in Croatia.