valence

(noun)

A one-dimensional value assigned to an object, situation, or state that can usually be positive or negative.

Related Terms

Examples of valence in the following topics:

  • Expectancy Theory

    • the desirability of the result (known as valence) to the individual
    • Vroom introduces three variables within his expectancy theory: valence (V), expectancy (E), and instrumentality (I).
    • These three components of expectancy theory (expectancy, instrumentality, and valence) fit together in this fashion:
    • V(O): Valence is the value individuals place on outcomes (O) based on their needs, goals, values, and sources of motivation.
    • Analyze Vroom's expectancy theory to assess the accuracy and effectiveness of motivating based upon expectancy, instrumentality, and valence

  • Perspectives on Motivation

    • Expectancy Theory is similarly derived, but it states this relationship through an equation: Motivation = Expectation (Σ Instrumentality × Valence).
    • Instrumentality simply refers to the belief that a level of performance will result in a level of outcome; valence refers to the value of that outcome.