Behavioural Studies - Essay Example

The first theory I would like to discuss is Clayton Alfred’s ERG theory. ERG means Existence, Relatedness and Growth. Alfred built his theory on Maslow’s hierarchy of needs theory, collapsing his five levels of needs into three categories. Existences needs are strivings for physiological and material well-being (or safety and physiological needs in terms of Maslow). Relatedness needs are desires to have satisfactory interpersonal relationships (social needs in Maslow’s terms). Growth needs are humans striving for psychological growth and development (levels of esteem and self-actualization in Maslow’s model).

This model assumes that unsatisfied needs serve as motivators for work. As people satisfy the lower level needs they strive to achieve the needs of upper levels. However, if it is impossible to satisfy these needs, people may move own the hierarchy revealing the so called frustration-regression principle. That is – when a higher level needs cannot be satisfied, the needs of the lower level may be reactivated and become motivators again. This peculiarity of human behavior allows capitalizing on the importance of higher level needs.

A manager should provide opportunities for growth and good workplace climate, two motivators preserving and enhancing employee loyalty and desire to work for the organization. Another useful theory is that of acquired needs elaborated by David McClelland. The basic presupposition is that each individual has specific needs of his own and these needs are learned through life experience. There are three needs motivating people in work. Need for achievement drives to excel. Need for power makes people develop leader qualities.

Need for affiliation is the desire to have good interpersonal relationships and avoid conflicts. Depending on employee needs a manager can tailor specific tasks and environment motivating people. High achievers