  Context: Requirements Engineering (RE)-related activities are critical in
developing quality software and one of the most human-dependent processes in
software engineering (SE). Hence, identifying the impact of diverse
human-related aspects on RE is crucial in the SE context. Objective: Our study
explores the impact of one of the most influential human aspects, motivation on
RE, aiming to deepen understanding and provide practical guidance. Method: By
conducting semi-structured interviews with 21 RE-involved practitioners, we
developed a theory using socio-technical grounded theory(STGT) that explains
the contextual, causal, and intervening conditions influencing motivation in
RE-related activities. Result: We identified strategies to enhance motivating
situations or mitigate demotivating ones, and the consequences resulting from
applying these strategies. Conclusion: Our findings offer actionable insights
for software practitioners to manage the influence of motivation on RE and help
researchers further investigate its role across various SE contexts in the
future.
