The Impact of Gamification Elements on Employee Engagement: The Relationship Between Psychological Needs and Motivation Through the Lens of Self-Determination Theory

This study investigates the impact of gamification elements on employee engagement. We focus on the interplay between psychological needs and motivation through the framework of self-determination theory. Analyzing data from employees across various sectors in Ghana, the research examines how gamification strategies such as badges, leaderboards, and social interactions affect employees' needs for competence, autonomy, and relatedness. The findings reveal that fulfilling these psychological needs significantly enhances intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, boosting employee engagement. The current research contributes to the growing literature on workplace gamification, offering practical insights for organizations seeking to implement effective engagement strategies that align with employees' motivational needs in a dynamic work environment.