Classical Theories of Motivation
April 3, 2025
The motivation concepts were mainly developed around 1950’s. Three main theories were made during this period. These three classical theories are- Maslow’s hierarchy of needs theory Herzberg’s Two factor theory Theory X and Theory Y These theories are building blocks of the contemporary theories developed later. The working mangers and learned professionals till date use…
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In 1960, Douglas McGregor formulated Theory X and Theory Y suggesting two aspects of human behaviour at work, or in other words, two different views of individuals (employees):
According to McGregor, the perception of managers on the nature of individuals is based on various assumptions.
In other words, the creativity, resourcefulness and innovative potentiality of the employees can be utilized to solve organizational problems.
Thus, we can say that Theory X presents a pessimistic view of employees’ nature and behaviour at work, while Theory Y presents an optimistic view of the employees’ nature and behaviour at work.
If we correlate it with Maslow’s theory, we can say that Theory X is based on the assumption that the employees emphasize on the physiological needs and the safety needs; while Theory X is based on the assumption that the social needs, esteem needs and the self-actualization needs dominate the employees.
McGregor views Theory Y to be more valid and reasonable than Theory X. Thus, he encouraged cordial team relations, responsible and stimulating jobs, and participation of all in decision-making process.
Theory Y encourages decentralization of authority, teamwork and participative decision making in an organization.
Theory Y searches and discovers the ways in which an employee can make significant contributions in an organization. It harmonizes and matches employees’ needs and aspirations with organizational needs and aspirations.
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