2.4 - Motivation Theories

Question 1

Taylor’s Motivation Theory

Answer 1

People are motivated by money

Based on maximizing productivity by experimenting with different ways to perform a task. Known as “Scientific Management”.

Question 2

Maslow’s Motivation Theory - Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Answer 2

• Based on the theory that we are motivated by what we need - our actions are dependent on our needs
• After a need has been satisfied it will no longer motivate us so we must aim higher
• Once all needs on a level have been met, we will start to aim for needs at the next level

Limitations:

• Not everyone will move systematically on the pyramid
• What does Self-Actualization mean?

Question 3

Hertzberg’s Motivation Theory - Herzberg’s two-factor theory

Answer 3

Motivating factors:

• Higher motivation when present
• Psychological factors that motivate employees - Maslow - Self Actualization, Esteem

Hygiene factors:

• Do not motivate employees
• But demotivate if they are not met - Maslow - Physiological, Safety, Belonging

Question 4

McClelland’s Motivation Theory

Answer 4

• Acquired Needs Theory
• Three Needs/Needs Theory
• Everyone is driven and motivated by 3 types of needs

The Need for Achievement (n-ach)
The Need for Power (n-pow)
The Need for Affiliation (n-aff)

Question 5

The Need for Achievement (n-ach)

Answer 5

To successfully complete tasks

Take on tasks of moderate difficulty

Not too easy or difficult

• Too easy - we know that we can complete it → demotivate
• Too difficult - can’t do it → demotivate

Question 6

The Need for Power (n-pow)

Answer 6

A need for prestige, status, and being able to influence others or the organization

May involve competition with others for this

Question 7

The Need for Affiliation (n-aff)

Answer 7

Need to feel accepted and respected by a group

Working as part of a team to collaborate on tasks and goals

Question 8

Implication for McClelland’s Motivation Theory

Answer 8

People tend to favor one of the three

• E.g. managers tend to favor Power

Show managers how to motivate employees

• E.g. Allow those who need Affiliation to use Team Working

Question 9

Deci and Ryan’s Motivation Theory - Self-Determination Theory - Autonomy

Answer 9

The ability to control one’s situation and have freedom

Give employees more choice and agency rather than being told what to do

• Can choose their working hours
• What training to go on

Question 10

Deci and Ryan’s Motivation Theory - Self-Determination Theory - Competence

Answer 10

The feeling of being accomplished at something

Provides opportunities to learn and training → employees can develop skills and knowledge to become better at their job

Question 11

Deci and Ryan’s Motivation Theory - Self-Determination Theory - Relatedness

Answer 11

Interacting and feeling connected to others

Provide Team Work opportunities

Question 12

Deci and Ryan’s Motivation Theory - Self-Determination Theory - Implication

Answer 12

The focus on intrinsic motivation - employees enjoying the work for what it is

Fulfilling Autonomy, Competence, and Relatedness can improve an employee’s self-determination and motivation

Question 13

Equity & Expectancy Motivation Theory - Adam’s Equity Theory

Answer 13

To be motivated, employees need to feel that what they get out of the job (output) is equal to what they put in (inputs)

• Compared to others

E.g. not rewarded enough?
E.g. rewarded too much?

Question 14

Vroom’s Expectancy Theory

Answer 14

Employees will only be motivated if they see that their efforts will lead to the desired outcome

Question 15

Expectancy

Answer 15

Vroom’s Expectancy Theory

Whether employees feel they have the ability to complete the task

Question 16

Instrumentality

Answer 16

Vroom’s Expectancy Theory

Whether employees believe they will be rewarded if the task is completed

Question 17

Valence

Answer 17

Vroom’s Expectancy Theory

Whether employees value the reward upon completion of the task