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Motivation theories
Objectives
After this session you will be able to:
• define ‘motivation’
• distinguish between content and process theories
• understand theories such as Maslow’s hierarchy of
needs, Herzberg’s motivation theory and Vroom’s
expectancy model
• apply these theories in the workplace.
Definitions
• Motivation is typified as an individual phenomenon
• Motivation is described, usually, as intentional
• Motivation is multifaceted
• The purpose of motivational theories is to predict
behaviour.
Mitchell defines motivation as, ‘the degree to which
an individual wants and chooses to engage in certain
specified behaviours’.
(Mullins 2005:471)
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MB463: Organisational Behaviour
Concept
The underlying concept of motivation is some driving
force within individuals by which they attempt to achieve
some goal in order to fulfil some need or expectation.
(Mullins 2005:471)
Caution!
The complexity of the interacting variables this
describes needs to be recognised.
Content theories
• Attempt to explain those specific things which actually
motivate the individual at work.
• These theories are concerned with identifying people’s
needs and their relative strengths, and the goals they
pursue in order to satisfy these needs.
• Place emphasis on the nature of needs and what
motivates.
(Mullins 2005:480)
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MB463: Organisational Behaviour
Process theories
• Attempt to identify the relationship among the
dynamic variables which make up motivation.
• These theories are concerned with how behaviour is
initiated, directed and sustained.
• Place emphasis on the actual process of motivation.
(Mullins 2005:480)
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