Motivation Theories
5
Major Theorists
Memorize all of them
2
Herzberg Factors
Motivators vs Hygiene
E×I×V
Vroom
Multiplicative — zero kills it
walk the gallery wall · five frames
The Theorist Gallery
Five framed portraits on a museum wall. Each frame holds the theorists central diagram, not just their name. Walk left to right and you walk through 70 years of motivation research.
1943
Maslow
stacks needs
1959
Herzberg
two factors
1960
McGregor
two mindsets
1964
Vroom
multiplies
1963
Adams
compares
— motivation theory wall —
how to read this
- › Each frame holds the theorists CORE DIAGRAM, not just their name. Recognize the shape, recognize the theory.
- › Maslow stacks. Herzberg splits. McGregor flips. Vroom multiplies. Adams weighs.
- › When the exam describes a scenario, match the SHAPE of the dynamic — stacking? splitting? — and the right theorist follows.
the most-tested motivation diagram
Maslow, Layer by Layer
Lower needs must be substantially satisfied before higher needs motivate. The order is fixed — the exam tests it directly.
Exam Traps
Salary is HYGIENE for Herzberg
Pay raises prevent dissatisfaction but do not lastingly motivate. The most-tested distinction in motivation theory.
McGregor Y is the modern best-practice
X assumes employees dislike work and need control. Y assumes self-direction. Y is the right answer in PM scenarios.
Vroom is multiplicative
Motivation = Expectancy × Instrumentality × Valence. Zero in any factor zeros out motivation. Find the missing factor in scenarios.
Maslow order is fixed
Belonging comes after Safety. Esteem comes after Belonging. The exam tests pyramid order.
Pay does not motivate
Herzberg: salary is a hygiene factor. It prevents dissatisfaction. It does not produce engagement.
Find the zero in Vroom
When motivation is missing, look for the missing E, I, or V. Multiplying by zero zeros the whole equation.
Dishwasher needs paycheck (Phys), workplace safety, team belonging, recognition, growth into chef (Self-Actualization).
Better break room (Hygiene). New apron + recognition (Motivator). Both matter, different jobs.
X: manager assumes dishwashers steal time. Y: manager assumes dishwashers want pride.
Effort produces faster work (E). Faster work earns tip share (I). Tips matter (V). All three present = motivated.
Dishwasher compares hours and pay to new hire who works less for the same. Inequity adjusts behavior.
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