The basis of this theory is the belief that the content of motivation consists of needs. An unsatisfied need creates tension and a state of disequilibrium. To restore the balance, a goal that will satisfy the need is identified, and a behaviour pathway that will lead to the achievement of the goal is selected. All behaviour is therefore motivated by unsatisfied needs.
Not all needs are equally important for a person at any one time – some may provide a much more powerful drive towards a goal than others, depending on the individual’s background and present situation. Complexity is further increased because there is no simple relationship between needs and goals. The same need can be satisfied by a number of different goals and the stronger the need and the longer its duration, the broader the range of possible goals. At the same time, one goal may satisfy a number of needs – a new car provides transport as well as an opportunity to impress the neighbours.
Needs theory was developed originally by Maslow (1954), who postulated the concept of a hierarchy of needs which he believed were fundamental to the personality. Herzberg et al’s (1957) two-factor model (see page 262) cannot strictly be classified as needs theory but he did identify a number of fundamental needs.
In addition, Alderfer (1972) developed his ERG theory, which refers to the need for existence, relatedness and growth. Maslow’s theory has been most influential.
Not all needs are equally important for a person at any one time – some may provide a much more powerful drive towards a goal than others, depending on the individual’s background and present situation. Complexity is further increased because there is no simple relationship between needs and goals. The same need can be satisfied by a number of different goals and the stronger the need and the longer its duration, the broader the range of possible goals. At the same time, one goal may satisfy a number of needs – a new car provides transport as well as an opportunity to impress the neighbours.
Needs theory was developed originally by Maslow (1954), who postulated the concept of a hierarchy of needs which he believed were fundamental to the personality. Herzberg et al’s (1957) two-factor model (see page 262) cannot strictly be classified as needs theory but he did identify a number of fundamental needs.
In addition, Alderfer (1972) developed his ERG theory, which refers to the need for existence, relatedness and growth. Maslow’s theory has been most influential.
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