Basic Structure of Motivation Theories and the Herzberg Two-Factor Theory

MOTIVATION THEORIES
Name:
Institution:
Course Code:
Date:
The basic structure of motivation theories
Theories of motivation can be broadly classified into three categories; content theories, process theories and learning theories. Content theories assume that workers are motivated by the desire to satisfy needs and that they seek to identify what their needs are. Content theories entail; Maslow’s hierarchical needs theory, Alderfer’s ERG theory, McClelland three needs theory and Herzberg's two-factor theory. Process theories of motivation are anchored on the thinking process. Process theories explain ‘how’ and ‘why’ workers are motivated. Process theories include; equity theory, expectancy theory, and goal setting theory. Learning theories attempt to explain how employees learn to perform desirable behaviors within an organization. Learning theories include; reinforcement theory and social learning theory.
The motivation theory I feel most connected with
I feel the Herzberg two factor theory to be the theory I connect with mostly. Herzberg after interviewing many professionals found out that the key to motivating people lies between two factors; motivating and hygiene factors. Motivating factors are the elements that make the employees work harder and be more productive and are found within the job itself. Hygiene factors are the factors that may not necessarily make the employees work harder but their unavailability thereof can demotivate the employees. The theory clearly distinguishes that there are factors that must be present for employees to work normally, optimally and subpar-level. The theory also insinuates that motivating factors...