Lifespan perspectives on work motivation

Work has long been recognized as an integral feature of human life. Formost people, identities and aspirations related to employment begin early inlife and are continuously shaped by community, family, schooling, health,job opportunities, and economic realities. In early adulthood, people typicallyfocus on learning new competencies, choosing an occupation, and managingthe school-to-work transition. During midlife, goals and concerns often shiftto improving the work experience, career development, and managing peri-ods of unemployment.