4 Early Theories of Motivation (1950s & 1960s)

  1. 12-2 Compare and contrast early theories of motivation.

Know these early theories because they: 1 Represent the foundation from which contemporary theories grew, and 2 Still are used by practicing managers to explain employee motivation.

1 Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory

(probably THE best-known motivation theory)7

  • Abraham Maslow—a psychologist—proposed that within every person is a hierarchy of five needs:

    Exhibit 12–1

    Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

    Source: Maslow, Abraham H., Frager, Robert D., Fadiman, James, Motivation and Personality, 3rd ...

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