Need-Based Theories of Motivation

Abstract

A need is a requirement or necessity for survival and wellbeing. The basic premise of need theories is that people are motivated to obtain outcomes at work that satisfy their needs. Need theories suggest that to motivate a person to contribute valuable inputs to a job and perform at a high level, a manager must determine what needs the person is trying to satisfy at work and ensure that he og she receives outcomes that help to satisfy those needs in return for performing at a high level and helping the organisation achieve its goals.

There are several need theories.

In any projects or similar, which has to perform at high level, there is a need for at motivated workforce. To have that, managers must determine what needs employees are trying to satisfy. There are several need-based theories which describe what motivates the human beings.

This article concentrates on some of the theories and how those challenge each other. It will look at how managers can help employees to satisfy these needs at work. At last the limitations are mentioned.

Need Theories

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

It argues that there are five stages of human needs that motivate our behaviour.

Alderfer's ERG Theory

Clayton Alderfer observed that individual needs differ according to circumstances. They do not need to move in an order of progression.

Herzberg's Motivation-Hygiene Theory

Comparison

Application

This section is in progress.

Limitations

This section is in progress.

Annotated bibliography

This section is in progress.

Di Waddell, Gareth R. Jones and Jennifer M. George (2013). Contemporary Management (3rd ed.).

https://wikispaces.psu.edu/display/PSYCH484/2.+Need+Theories