In occupational psychology, the concept of completeness is an important component of many theories, such as the job characteristics model and various action regulation theories.

As defined in the action regulation theory, completeness is considered as an integrative or superordinate working condition factor. In this theory, there are both sequentially complete and hierarchically complete tasks. Sequential completeness means that employees not only carry out their tasks, but also prepare, organise and check them themselves. Hierarchical completeness refers to the extent to which work activities contain different levels of requirements for thinking.

In the framework of the job characteristics model, completeness means the extent of task identity. Meant is the extent to which an activity comprises holistic tasks – from the first work steps through to completion of a visible result.

Current state of knowledge

A scoping review by the Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health summarises the state of scientific knowledge of complete tasks and considers its interrelation with (mental) health and well-being. It also describes its relations to motivation, job satisfaction and performance. The theoretical principles are the action regulation theory and the job characteristics model. In addition, the authors reveal research gaps and discuss options for designing this factor, in particular with regard to the design approach "job enrichment".

The project "Mental Health in the Working World"

The scoping review on complete tasks is part of the project "Mental Health in the Working World - determining the current state of scientific evidence". The project assesses mental load factors based on the state of scientific knowledge.

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