The Work Extrinsic and Intrinsic Motivation Scale (WEIMS) is an 18-item measure of work motivation
theoretically grounded in self-determination theory (Deci & Ryan, 2000). The purpose of the present
research was twofold. First, the applicability of the WEIMS in different work environments was
evaluated. Second, its factorial structure and psychometric properties were assessed. Two samples of
workers (military: N 465; civilians: N 192) voluntarily completed questionnaires. Using the
WEIMS’s 3 indexes (work self-determination index, work self-determined and nonself-determined
motivation, respectively), results of regression analyses were supportive of its ability to predict positive
and negative criteria in the workplace. Results also showed the adequacy of both its construct validity and
internal consistency. Its factorial structure was also invariant across samples. Finally, its quasi-simplex
pattern and relationships with psychological correlates further supported the self-determination continuum.
Overall, these findings provide evidence for the applicability as well as the reliability and validity
of the WEIMS in organisational settings. Results are discussed in regard to the applicability of
self-determination theory to the workplace