Abstract
M.Com. (Industrial Psychology)
Orientation: In this study the construct of psychological flow, a form of optimal experience, amongst a small group of South African engineers were explored. Research purpose: The main objective of this dissertation was to explore, describe, and gain an understanding of engineers‟ flow experiences at work. Motivation for the study: The motivation to embark on this study was threefold and based on a personal interest in flow, engineering and qualitative research. Research design, approach and method: I adopted a qualitative research approach by employing a multiple case study that is instrumental and explorative by nature. Three engineers from different fields provided their views and experiences on flow through semi-structured and structured interviews, as well as by keeping a diary. Thematic analysis was used to interpret the data. Main findings: Confirmation has been found for the nine characteristics of flow according to Csikszentmihalyi (1990). A possible tenth characteristic, namely optimal pressure has emerged from the data where the participants indicate that they also experience forced flow. Implications of findings and discoveries: The understanding of flow and what it constitutes has implications for how engineers can „craft‟ their jobs, how managerial engineers may experience flow and how „incubating‟ engineers can experience flow and improve their performance. Contribution: This study offers a modest contribution to the world of engineering in that it can help engineers to know what is required in order to experience their work in an optimal manner. Furthermore, this study expands on current theoretical work conducted on flow by suggesting a possible tenth characteristic.