American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

Which two principles are integral to a hierarchy of needs in management?

1. Maslow and Herzberg.

2. Freud and Maslow.

3. Maslow and ERG.

4. McGregor and Herzberg.

The correct answer is: Maslow and ERG.

The selection of Maslow and ERG as integral to a hierarchy of needs in management is grounded in their foundational roles in understanding human motivation within organizational contexts. Maslow's hierarchy of needs posits that individuals are motivated by a series of hierarchical needs, ranging from basic physiological requirements to higher-level psychological needs, culminating in self-actualization. This framework emphasizes that until lower-level needs are satisfied, individuals are less likely to be motivated by higher-order needs. On the other hand, the ERG theory, developed by Clayton Alderfer, is an extension of Maslow's ideas. ERG stands for Existence, Relatedness, and Growth. This model condenses Maslow’s five levels into three broader categories, which allows for more fluidity in human motivation. Unlike Maslow’s rigid hierarchy, the ERG theory suggests that individuals can be motivated by needs from different levels simultaneously, recognizing the complexities of human motivation. Together, these two theories provide a comprehensive understanding of employee motivation and behavior, illustrating the varying levels and kinds of needs that drive individuals in a management context. They emphasize the importance of addressing both fundamental needs and the more complex desires for growth and relationships within the workplace to enhance motivation and lead to improved organizational outcomes.