consistency theory
a class of social psychological theory holding that people are chiefly motivated by a desire to maintain congruence or consistency among their cognitions. Originally introduced by Fritz Heider, Leon Festinger, and others, consistency theory was first applied specifically to work behavior by Abraham K. Korman (1933– ) in 1970. Korman’s theory is based on a two-point premise: a balance notion and a self-image standard. The theory states that workers will engage in, and find satisfying, behaviors that maximize their sense of cognitive balance and will be motivated to perform in a manner consistent with their self-image. Also called self-consistency theory. See consistency motive; self-verification motive.