What affects the turnover intention of civil servants: Evidence from Bhutan

Research utilising self‐determination theory (SDT) and, in particular, the concept of need satisfaction in public organisations has been increasing in recent years. At the same time, most studies are using insights from SDT, and are not really testing them. In fact, we still have limited knowledge on the outcomes of need satisfaction for civil servants. In this study, we aim to understand how need satisfaction affects the intrinsic motivation of civil servants, as well as their intention to leave the organisation in which they currently work. Using original data from 580 civil servants in Bhutan, this study finds that need satisfaction matters for intrinsic motivation and turnover intention. More specifically, this study finds that while need satisfaction has a positive effect on intrinsic motivation, it has a negative effect on turnover intention. Intrinsic motivation also mediates this relationship. To reduce turnover intention, policymakers may need to enhance public sector employees’ need satisfaction and their intrinsic motivation. These findings are consistent with Bhutan's context, in which happiness and human connection and fulfilment are more important than economic values. Points for practitioners Civil servants of Bhutan whose needs are satisfied are more likely to be intrinsically motivated and less likely to express an intention to quit their jobs. To reduce turnover intention, policymakers may need to enhance public sector employees’ need satisfaction and their intrinsic motivation.