Human Resource Theories

Question 1

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Answer 1

We have 5 needs, we’re on a quest to satisfy these needs, they are from bottom up:
1. Physiological. We need air, food, clothing and shelter.
2. Safety. We need safety and security.
3. Social. We need friends, approval, and love.
4. Esteem. We need respect, appreciation, and approval.
5. Self-actualization. We need personal growth, knowledge, and fulfillment

Question 2

Herzbergs Theory of Motivation

Answer 2

There are hygiene agents and motivating agents. Hygiene agents are expectations of employment : paycheck, insurance, safe working environment.

Motivating agents motivators for employees such as bonuses, career advancement, opportunity to grow. Hygiene agents will not motivate, but their absence will de-motivate

Question 3

Halo Effect

Answer 3

All opinions are formed by one component. A great engineer doesn’t always make a great PM.

Question 4

Individuals allow their work to consume all their time. Work will expand to fill the amount of time allotted to it.

Answer 4

Parkinson’s Law

Question 5

McGregor’s X and Y

Answer 5

Managements perspective of employees. X people are bad, lazy and need to be micromanaged. Y people are self directed. Most managers have X and Y attributes

Question 6

Ouchi’s Theory Z

Answer 6

Workers do well if motivated. This provides participative management, familial work environment, and lifelong employment. Known as Japanese Management Style

Question 7

Needs are acquired over time and shaped by life experiences. Our needs are categorized as achievement, affiliation, and power. McClelland used a Thematic Apperception Test (TAT) to determine an individual’s needs

Answer 7

McClellands Theory of Needs

Question 8

Vroom’s Expectancy Theory

Answer 8

People behave based on what they believe/ expect their behavior to bring them.