Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

A motivational theory that says people are driven by a series of needs arranged in levels

Lowest Unmet Need

The key principle of Maslow’s theory: people are motivated by the lowest level need that has not yet been satisfied

Physiological Needs

Basic survival needs such as food

Safety and Security Needs

Protection and confidence that future needs will be met

Social Needs

Belonging and acceptance through friendships

Esteem Needs

Recognition as a unique and valued member of the group

Self-Actualization

Intrinsic motivation to grow

Example of Moving Down Needs

A self-actualized person can suddenly shift to survival focus if a fire alarm goes off

Organizational Way to Meet Physiological Needs

Provide safe and comfortable work areas

Organizational Way to Meet Security Needs

Provide salary

Organizational Way to Meet Social Needs

Encourage team-building

Organizational Way to Meet Esteem Needs

Use recognition programs like employee of the month

Organizational Way to Meet Self-Actualization Needs

Offer opportunities for growth

ERG Theory

A refinement of Maslow’s model developed by Clayton Alderfer

ERG Stands For

Existence

ERG Existence Needs

Combined Maslow’s physiological and safety needs

ERG Relatedness Needs

Equivalent to Maslow’s social needs

ERG Growth Needs

Combination of Maslow’s esteem and self-actualization needs

Key Difference Between Maslow and ERG

Maslow said needs are hierarchical

Frustration-Regression Principle (ERG)

If one need cannot be met (e.g.

Why ERG is More Realistic

Recognizes that people balance multiple needs at once and make trade-offs in motivation