Content and Process Theories of Motivation

Explore the foundational theories that underpin management practices. While management
theories are not exact sciences, they adhere to scientific standards and are essential for understanding and
applying management principles in our organizations. These theories provide a framework for measuring and
comprehending organizational behavior. Maslow introduces us to these theories, emphasizing the importance of
meeting basic needs such as security, hunger, and thirst—a reminder that certain needs, like rest and sleep, are
often elusive in graduate school.
This session focuses on understanding the various theories of motivation that explain why individuals act the
way they do in organizational settings. The session will cover content theories of motivation, process theories of
motivation, and attribution theory and its relation to motivation. These theories provide a foundation for creating
strategies to enhance employee motivation and performance.
Content Theories of Motivation
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs
Overview of the five levels of needs: physiological, safety, love/belonging, esteem, and self-actualization.
Application in organizational contexts.
Alderfer’s ERG Theory
Existence, Relatedness, and Growth needs.
Comparison with Maslow’s theory.
Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory
Hygiene factors and motivators.
Implications for job satisfaction and employee motivation.
McClelland’s Theory of Needs

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