Professor Jenkins tells his class that "self-esteem matters most in individualist cultures" and that "people have starved themselves for certain causes." Professor Jenkins' statements provide examples of criticisms of which theory of motivation?
A) arousal theory
B) the Yerkes-Dodson law
C) Maslow's hierarchy of needs
D) instinct theory

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Professor Jenkins' statements criticize Maslow's hierarchy of needs, which proposes that physiological needs are the most basic and important motivators, followed by safety needs, belongingness and love needs, esteem needs, and finally self-actualization needs. Professor Jenkins argues that in some cultures, such as individualist cultures, self-esteem needs may be more important than other needs lower on the hierarchy. Additionally, his statement about people starving themselves for certain causes suggests that individuals may prioritize needs above physiological needs, which contradicts Maslow's theory.

Professor Jenkins Tells His Class That "Self-Esteem Matters Most in Individualist