Leaving Cert Business Management Skills (Leading & Motivating): (i) Explain the ‘hierarchy of ne

(i) Explain the ‘hierarchy of needs’ developed by Maslow in his theory of motivation - Leaving Cert Business - Question 4 (B) - 2018

Question 4 (B)

(i) Explain the ‘hierarchy of needs’ developed by Maslow in his theory of motivation. (ii) Discuss possible limitations of this theory of motivation.

Worked Solution & Example Answer:(i) Explain the ‘hierarchy of needs’ developed by Maslow in his theory of motivation - Leaving Cert Business - Question 4 (B) - 2018

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Answer

Maslow's hierarchy of needs is a psychological theory proposing that human motivations are organized into a hierarchy comprising five levels:

Physical Needs: These are basic survival needs such as food, shelter, and water. Employees require a stable income to meet these needs, which form the foundation of motivation.
Safety Needs: Once physical needs are met, individuals seek security and stability. Managers can fulfill this by providing job security, health benefits, and a safe working environment.
Social Needs: Humans are inherently social beings. This level involves the need for belongingness and love, which can be met through teamwork and social events to foster friendships among employees.
Esteem Needs: The need for recognition and respect comes next. Managers can empower workers by offering praise and opportunities for career advancement, helping them achieve self-esteem.
Self-Actualisation Needs: This is the highest level, where individuals strive to fulfill their potential and become everything they are capable of. Opportunities for growth, like training and development, are essential at this stage.

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Answer

Despite its popularity, Maslow's theory has several limitations:

Cultural Variability: Needs may not occur in the strict hierarchy that Maslow suggests. Cultural and individual differences can significantly impact how needs are prioritized.
Diverse Employee Needs: Not all employees exhibit the same hierarchical progression of needs. Individual differences can lead to varying motivational factors among employees.
Timing of Needs: Employees may be motivated by different needs at different times, making a static hierarchy ineffective.
Research Basis: The theory lacks rigorous empirical support, as it was primarily developed from subjective observations rather than scientific research.