Compare and contrast Maslow’s hierarchy of needs theory with McClelland’s need theory.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The most well-known theory of need motivation is the Maslow hierarchy of needs.
The theory was the first to point out that there are individual differences in motivation.
The first level in the hierarchy of needs is physiological needs (e.g., hunger). The next
level is safety needs (e.g., the need for protection from physical harm). At the third level
of the hierarchy are a person’s social needs (e.g., belongingness and friendship). The
fourth level is esteem needs (e.g., status and recognition from others). Finally, at the top
of the hierarchy is what Maslow termed self-actualization, which is the drive to meet our
fullest capacity (e.g., growth and feeling fulfilled as a person). Physiological and safety
needs are lower order needs, while social needs, esteem, and self-actualization are
higher order needs. When a need is not satisfied, it becomes dominant. Despite the
popularity of Maslow’s hierarchy due to its simplicity and intuitive appeal, it has not been
supported by research evidence. McClelland’s needs theory considers three
fundamental needs: The need for achievement (nAch)--the drive to succeed at high
levels; the need for power (nPow)--the need to influence others to do what you want;
and the need for affiliation (nAff)--the need for close personal relationships.
McClelland’s theory has received more research support than other need theories;
however, the application of the theory to motivate followers is limited because these
needs are believed to be learned at a young age.