Intrinsic motivation for work activities is associated with empathy: Investigating the indirect relationship between intrinsic motivation for work activities and social support through empathy and prosocial behavior

We proposed a model wherein high intrinsic motivation for work activities fosters high empathy and empathy promotes prosocial behavior, which contributes to greater social support. The results showed that employees with high intrinsic motivation for work activities had greater empathy, and intrinsic motivation was significantly related to social support through empathy and in turn prosocial behavior. This study elucidates the factors that underlie individuals' empathy and extends our understanding of the beneficial function of intrinsic motivation beyond the achievement domain to caring for others and enhancing social support in the social domain.