IN TERMS OF MEANING: Maslow’S theory is based on the concept of human needs and their satisfaction while Herzberg’s theory is based on the use of motivators which includes achievement, recognition and opportunity for growth. Hygiene factors are dissatisfiers while motivating factors motivate subordinate.

The two-factor theory of emotion focuses on the interaction between physical arousal and how we cognitively label that arousal. In other words, simply feeling arousal is not enough; we also must identify the arousal in order to feel the emotion.

Frederick Herzberg theorized that employee satisfaction has two dimensions: “hygiene” and motivation. Hygiene issues, such as salary and supervision, decrease employees’ dissatisfaction with the work environment. Motivators, such as recognition and achievement, make workers more productive, creative and committed.

The main difference between them is that; the basis of Maslow’s theory is human needs and their satisfaction. On the other hand, Herzberg’s theory relies on reward and recognition.

The most famous of the content theories is the by-now classic Maslow’s theory. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs theory tells us about what people need (from basic physiological ones such as hunger to belonging to a group to self-actualization), and these innate needs are what motivate/drive people to action.

Four theories may be placed under this category: Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, ERG theory, Herzberg’s two-factor theory, and McClelland’s acquired-needs theory.

The authors also noted that the theory “is almost nontestable” because Maslow did not provide clear, standard definitions of each need construct, but mainly because it is very difficult to measure the relative satisfaction of needs and the precise extent to which a need must be satisfied before the next emerges, or …

Criticisms of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs  The needs may not follow a definite hierarchical order. For example, even if safety need is not satisfied, the social need may emerge.  The need priority model may not apply at all times in all places.  The level of motivation may be permanently lower for some people.

Examples of Self-actualization Needs

• Famous Personalities.
• Growth and Development of Employees.
• Artists and Creative People.
• Exhibitions of Art.
• Social Workers.