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In a theoretical analysis of the relationship between job satisfaction and job performance, Locke proposed that these two variables would be associated when performance led to the attainment of the individual's important job values. Three hypotheses specifying conditions for finding a relationship between satisfaction and performance were derived from Locke's conceptual analysis, and tested using data from a study of 103 physicians providing routine pediatric care in ambulatory clinics. Satisfaction and performance were positively associated when: (1) the physician's intrinsic job values supported patient care activities; (2) he received professional recognition from outpatient care; and (3) commitment to outpatient care arose from interest in the activity itself rather than from its value as a means to long-range career goals. These findings support the hypotheses based on Locke's work. It was suggested that certain conditions particular to the settings in which this research was carried out may have contributed to these results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]