Computer technology training in the workplace: A longitudinal investigation of the effect of mood

How does a person's mood during technology training influence motivation, i ntentions, and, ultimately, usage of the new technology? Do these mood effe cts dissipate or are they sustainable over time? A repeated-measures field study (n = 316) investigated the effect of mood on employee motivation and intentions toward using a specific computer technology at two points in tim e: immediately after training and 6 weeks after training. Actual usage beha vior was assessed for 12 weeks after training. Each individual was assigned to one of three mood treatments: positive, negative, or control. Results i ndicated that there were only short-term boosts in intrinsic motivation and intention to use the technology among individuals in the positive mood int ervention. However, a long-term lowering of intrinsic motivation and intent ion was observed among those in the negative mood condition. (C) 1999 Acade mic Press.