Volunteer work in youth organizations: predicting distinct aspects of volunteering behavior from self- and other-oriented motives

This study examined the impact of motivational underpinnings of volunteerism on self-reported volunteer behaviors and satisfaction. Data from 153 volunteers in youth organizations supported a two-dimensional structure of self- and other-oriented motives. Self-oriented motives were more important in explaining in-role volunteer behavior, while other-oriented concerns were also important in predicting extra-role volunteer behavior and satisfaction. These findings are discussed in the context of a functional approach to volunteerism and linked to recent findings regarding the role of self-and other-oriented motives from the organizational literature. Suggestions for recruiting and motivating young volunteers in youth development organizations are presented.