Consider whether the theories discussed in the chapter—expectancy theory, goal setting theory, equity theory, and psychological empowerment—are relevant to the list of reasons you’ve generated. Maybe one of the theories supports the wisdom of a given reason. For example, maybe Pat’s job is more difficult than Chris’s job.

Equity theory would support the wisdom of that reason because job difficulty is a relevant input. Maybe one of the theories questions the wisdom of a given reason.

For example, maybe Chris’s boss believes that salary increases are a poor use of limited financial resources. Expectancy theory would question the wisdom of that reason because that philosophy harms instrumentality.