Title: Motivation Theories: Top 3 Theories of Motivation | Business Management
Headings: Motivation Theories: Top 3 Theories of Motivation | Business Management
Motivation Theories: Top 3 Theories of Motivation | Business Management
This article throws light upon the top three theories of motivation. The three theories are: 1. Maslow’s Theory of Need Hierarchy 2. Herzberg’s Two Factors or Motivation-Hygiene Theory 3. Mc. Gregor’s Theory X and Theory Y.
Motivation Theory # 1. Maslow’s Theory of Need Hierarchy:
The basic human needs identified by Maslow in an ascending order of importance are as under:
1. Physiological Needs:
2. Safety Needs:
3. Social Needs:
4. Esteem Needs:
5. Self-actualization Needs:
All these observations in regard to motivation are based on the following propositions about human behaviour:
Criticism:
But the hierarchy of needs theory has been widely criticised in the following respects:
Motivation Theory # 2. Herzberg’s Two Factors or Motivation-Hygiene Theory:
(i) Hygiene Factors:
These factors are related to the work environment. According to Herzberg the following factors are included in this category:
(ii) Motivating Factors:
These are:
Criticism:
However, Herzberg’s model is not applied in all conditions. It has the following weaknesses:
Motivation Theory # 3. Mc. Gregor’s Theory X and Theory Y:
The basic assumptions about human nature and behaviour in working according to both these theories are given below:
Theory ‘X’:
According to the traditional view of human behaviour, the following assumptions hold good about the work behaviour of people:
Theory ‘Y’:
Theory ‘Y’ is based on the following assumptions:

Content: The three theories are: 1. Maslow’s Theory of Need Hierarchy 2. Herzberg’s Two Factors or Motivation-Hygiene Theory 3. Mc. Gregor’s Theory X and Theory Y.
Motivation Theory # 1. Maslow’s Theory of Need Hierarchy: The behaviour of an individual at a particular moment is usually determined by his strongest need. Psychologists claim that, as the basic needs are satisfied, an individual seeks to satisfy the higher level needs. ADVERTISEMENTS: