What is the main weakness of Maslow's hierarchy of needs and Herzberg's motivation-hygiene theory?
A) They are too complicated to be of any practical value to managers.
B) They do not specify what motivates people.
C) They do not explain why or how motivation is developed and sustained.
D) They offer no improvement from the scientific management theory.
E) They apply only to large organisations and have no value for smaller companies.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Both theories do not explain how motivation is developed and sustained over time. Maslow's hierarchy of needs assumes that needs are fixed and that once a need is satisfied, it no longer motivates an individual. Herzberg's theory also assumes that satisfaction and dissatisfaction are two separate things, but it does not explain how to increase motivation or sustain it.

What Is the Main Weakness of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs