Similarities and Differences between Motivational Theories

Question 1

SIMILARITIES BETWEEN: Maslow (Hierarchy of Needs) & Locke and Lathum (Goal Setting)

Answer 1

1. The achievement of a goal in Locke & Lathum’s goal setting theory is similar to Maslow’s self actualization and self esteem level being achieved.
2. Both theories recognize the importance of recognition and feedback, for Maslow this is esteem needs, whilst for Locke and Lathum’s this occurs when the employee and manager discusses the setting of goals (commitment) and during the feedback process.

Question 2

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN: Maslow (Hierarchy of Needs) & Locke and Lathum (Goal Setting)

Answer 2

1. The 2 theories are different as Maslow’s theory is an ongoing process for the long term, whereas Locke and Lathum’s theory is more short term where there is and ending when the goal has been achieved.
2. Locke and Lathum’s theory is generally achieved by one individual at a time whereas, Maslow can have procedure put in place throughout the buisness to allow a group of employees to pursue motivation at the same time.

Question 3

SIMILARITIES BETWEEN: Maslow (Hierarchy of Needs) & Lawrence and Nohria (Four drive Theory)

Answer 3

1. Both theories written to explain human behaviour NOT intended for workplace motivation.
2. Both theories have a similarity in the pursuit of satisfaction, in Maslow’s case it’s satisfying needs whereas in Lawrence and Nohria’s case it’s satisfying drives.

Question 4

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN: Maslow (Hierarchy of Needs) & Lawrence and Nohria (Four drive Theory)

Answer 4

1. Maslow has 5 levels of needs whereas Lawrence and Nohria’s has four drives.
2. Maslow’s theory is sequential. That is, a person must satisfy one level in the hierarchy before they can move to the next one. Whereas the four drives act independently of each other and it’s possible to work towards satisfaction of more than one goal at the same time.

Question 5

SIMILARITIES BETWEEN: Lawrence and Nohria ( 4 Drive Theory) & Locke and Lathum’s ( Goal Setting Theory)

Answer 5

1. Locke and Lathum’s achievement in fulfilling goal setting can be linked to the drive to Acquire (Achievement).
2. In both theories the manager must understand the needs of their employees to be able to implement appropriate strategies/goals that will help motivate them

Question 6

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN: Lawrence and Nohria ( 4 Drive Theory) & Locke and Lathum’s ( Goal Setting Theory)

Answer 6

1. Fundamental ideas of the theories are different Lawrence & Nohria an individual is attempting to satisfy four drives, which is different to Locke and Lathum as it involves the idea of the person achieving a single set goal.
2. Locke and Lathum generally a person is pursuing one goal at a time, whereas Lawrence & Nohria a person needs to satisfy the four drives.