Structural constraints and psychological need satisfaction among platform-based delivery riders in South Africa

Platform-based motorbike delivery riders have become an essential part of the urban labour force, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic increased online shopping. This qualitative study used Self-Determination Theory and the Psychology of Working Theory to explore how motorbike delivery work promotes or undermines riders' psychological needs of competence, relatedness and autonomy. Ten motorbike delivery riders in Johannesburg, Gauteng, participated in twenty semi-structured interviews (two per participant). Hybrid thematic analyses were employed to analyse the data. Findings indicated that, amidst high unemployment and limited job opportunities in South Africa, platform-based motorbike delivery work partially satisfies riders' psychological needs. Relatedness was supported in interactions with customers and co-workers but limited by experiences of social stigmatisation. As independent contractors, riders enjoyed greater labour market flexibility and often earned more than in previous jobs, both of which promoted their autonomy. However, constant concerns regarding personal safety severely undermined this need. Challenges such as limited training and procedural injustice also restricted their need for competence. This study extends the Psychology of Working Theory by demonstrating how structural constraints not only influence the attainment of decent work but also shape the outcomes of decent work, specifically the fulfilment of psychological needs in precarious labour contexts. • Psychological needs fulfilment in precarious work is influenced by structural factors • Competence focuses on task execution, lacking career development. • Relatedness intersects with marginalisation factors, varying by socio-economic factors • Economic constraints limit basic need satisfaction for precarious workers. • Autonomy should be re-theorised in contexts with restricted choices