ABSTRACT
This chapter describes how the integration of nonlinear dynamical systems (NDS) theory with the study of flow can represent an important step for understanding optimal experience at work, as a nonequilibrium condition where abrupt and discontinuous changes naturally emerge. Similarly, this enriched conceptualization of work-related flow can have important implications for organizational practice. For instance, managers can increase optimal experience at work by designing interventions according to a nonlinear model of work-related flow. The chapter outlines why flow can be considered as a nonergodic process and therefore it is important to study the intra-individual variation of flow using person-specific dynamic models. It presents an overview of NDS theory and potential applications to questions in work-related flow, and the relevance of NDS methods for developing person-specific dynamic models. The chapter discusses the implications that this nonlinear conceptualization has for research and organizational practice.
