Principles of Management CLEP Practice Exam 2026 - Free Management Practice Questions and Study Guide

Valence in the context of motivation refers specifically to the value an individual places on the rewards they expect to receive as a result of their performance. It embodies the personal significance of a reward and how much a person desires it. For example, if an employee values a promotion highly because it aligns with their personal career goals or financial needs, the valence related to that promotion is high. Conversely, if the reward holds little significance to them, the valence is low. This concept is essential in understanding how motivation drives behavior, as individuals are more likely to exert effort if they perceive that the outcome (reward) is significant to them personally.

The other choices do not capture the essence of valence. The effort invested in a task relates more to the concept of expectancy, while an individual's belief about their performance aligns with expectancy theory. Likewise, the relationship between performance and outcomes usually pertains to instrumentality, another component of expectancy theory. Each of those elements plays a role in motivation but does not define valence, which is centered on perceived value and desirability of the rewards themselves.