Public service motivation may be understood as an individual's predisposition to respond to motives grounded primarily or uniquely in public institutions and organizations.

Public service motivation is a concept that refers to an individual's inclination to fulfill their duties and responsibilities towards the public by serving them honestly and effectively. It is rooted in the belief that public service is a noble and socially responsible profession that aims to promote the common good and advance the interests of society as a whole. Public service motivation focuses on the public interest and is based on a sense of duty, responsibility, and commitment to serving the public.