Motivation Theories & Employee Engagement Flashcards

According to Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, which level must be satisfied before an employee is motivated by esteem needs?

Answer: Social/belonging needs

Maslow's hierarchy requires social/belonging needs (the third level) to be met before esteem needs (the fourth level) can motivate behavior.

Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory distinguishes between hygiene factors and motivators. Which of the following is classified as a motivator?

Answer: Achievement

Achievement is a motivator in Herzberg's theory because it drives intrinsic satisfaction and growth, whereas salary and policy are hygiene factors that prevent dissatisfaction.

A manager notices an employee's performance drops after a high-performing peer receives the same bonus. Which motivation theory best explains this behavior?

Answer: Equity Theory

Equity Theory explains that employees compare their input-to-output ratio with others, and perceived inequity leads to reduced motivation or effort.

In Vroom's Expectancy Theory, 'instrumentality' refers to the belief that:

Answer: Performance will lead to a desired reward

Instrumentality is the perceived probability that successful performance will result in a specific outcome or reward.

Which of the following management approaches is most consistent with McGregor's Theory Y assumptions?

Answer: Delegating authority and trusting employees to self-direct

Theory Y assumes employees are intrinsically motivated and capable of self-direction, so managers should delegate and empower rather than control.

Alderfer's ERG Theory condenses Maslow's five needs into three categories. Which category corresponds most closely to Maslow's esteem and self-actualization levels?

Answer: Growth

Alderfer's Growth category encompasses the need for personal development and achievement, corresponding to Maslow's esteem and self-actualization levels.

An employee engagement survey reveals low scores on 'sense of purpose.' Which action would MOST directly address this driver of engagement?

Answer: Clarifying how individual roles connect to organizational mission

Connecting individual roles to the broader organizational mission directly addresses purpose, a key intrinsic driver of employee engagement.