Typology and Identification of the Components of Work Passion in the Workplace: A Qualitative Study Based on Thematic Analysis

Moslem  Behyarfar; Mehrdad Sadeghi; Reza  Ebrahimzadeh

Authors

Moslem Behyarfar Department of Management, Isf.C., Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran Author https://orcid.org/0009-0002-3155-6282
Mehrdad Sadeghi Department of Management, Isf.C., Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran Author https://orcid.org/0009-0007-6106-7400
Reza Ebrahimzadeh Department of Management, Isf.C., Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran Author https://orcid.org/0009-0005-3976-9487

Keywords:

work passion, typology, thematic analysis, behavioral manifestation, psychological core

Abstract

This study aimed to develop a typology of the dual-faceted phenomenon of “work passion” in the workplace and identify its constituent components. This qualitative study employed thematic analysis to examine 70 valid English-language scholarly articles. The validity of the findings was confirmed by experts, and their reliability was verified using Holsti’s coefficient of agreement. The typology of work passion results from the interaction of two principal dimensions: (1) the psychological core, encompassing motivational drivers, cognitive engagement, and emotion regulation; and (2) behavioral manifestation, encompassing work–life boundary management and behavioral and performance outcomes. The intersection of these two dimensions forms a comprehensive matrix for the typology of work passion. Differences among types of work passion are not limited to the intensity of intrinsic motivation; rather, they also depend on how passion is behaviorally manifested and how work–life balance is managed. Understanding this matrix is essential for designing human resource interventions and preventing job burnout.

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