Motivation of Students from Novi Sad (Serbia) for Volunteering

Abstract

Despite the widely recognized importance of youth volunteering for both individual development and social capital, there is still a lack of in-depth research into the motivational mechanisms that drive student engagement. This study explores the underlying motives, perceived barriers, and gender-related differences in volunteering behavior among university students in Novi Sad (Serbia). The analysis focuses particularly on how previous volunteering experience shapes students’ motivation and attitudes toward civic participation. A quantitative survey was conducted in 2023 among 240 students from various academic disciplines. The questionnaire combined socio-demographic data, the Volunteer Functions Inventory (VFI) scale for assessing volunteer motivations, and additional items assessing preferred areas of engagement and obstacles to participation. Statistical and comparative analyses were used to identify key motivational patterns and group-specific variations. The findings indicate that students are primarily motivated by personal development (self-realization, gaining experience), social connection (meeting new people, building relationships, feeling useful), and value-oriented reasons. Students with volunteering experience emphasize the development of skills and the meaningful contribution to the community. In contrast, students without volunteering experience tend to idealize volunteering as a path to self-growth and social integration. Lack of free time emerges as the most common obstacle, while external recognition of volunteering is considered unimportant. Although gender differences are not statistically significant, girls show a slightly higher preference for caregiving-oriented volunteer roles. The findings are discussed in relation to functional motivation theory, Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, Putnam’s concept of social capital, and Ajzen’s theory of planned behavior. The study highlights the need for strategic programs that combine personal incentives with broader social goals in order to strengthen the youth volunteering culture and civic engagement.