Maslow's hierarchy of needs
Maslow's theory consisted of two
parts:
(1) The classification of human
needs, and
(2) Consideration of how the classes
are related to each other
The classes of needs were summarised
by Maslow as follows:
How does the Hierarchy Work?
A person starts at the bottom of the
hierarchy (pyramid) and will initially seek to satisfy basic needs (e.g.: food,
shelter) once these physiological needs have been satisfied, they are no longer
a motivator, the individual moves up to the next level. Safety needs at work
could include physical safety (e.g.: protective clothing) as well as protection
against unemployment, loss of income through sickness etc.).Social needs
recognize that most people want to belong to a group. These would include the
need for love and belonging (e.g.: working with colleague who supports you at
work, teamwork, communication). Esteem needs are about being given recognition
for a job well done. They reflect the fact that many people seek the esteem and
respect of others. A promotion at work might achieve this. Self-actualization
is about how people think about themselves; this is often measured by the
extent of success and or challenge at work.
Maslow’s model has great potential
appeal in the business world. The message is clear-if management can find out
which level each employee has reached, then they can decide on suitable
rewards.
Problems with the Maslow Model
There are several problems with the
Maslow model when real-life working practice is considered:
- Individual behavior seems to
respond to several needs - not just one
- The same need (e.g. the need to
interact socially at work) may cause quite different behaviour in different
individuals
- There is a problem in deciding
when a level has actually been "satisfied"
- The model ignores the
often-observed behaviour of individuals who tolerate low-pay for the promise of
future benefits
- There is little empirical evidence
to support the model. Some critics suggest that Maslow's model is only really
relevant to understanding the behaviour of middle-class workers in the UK and
the USA (where Maslow undertook his research).
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