Comparison of Maslow and Herzberg Theory of Motivation

Comparison of Maslow and Herzberg Theory of Motivation shows the similarities and differences between the hierarchy of needs and two factor theory.

Maslow and Herzberg provided most popular human motivation theories that used in the workforce. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs and Herzberg’s two Factor theory are compared and we try to find out what makes them similar and also different.

Comparison of Maslow and Herzberg Theory of Motivation

Similarity of Maslow and Herzberg Theory of Motivation

In fact, there is a great similarity between Maslow’s and Herzberg’s models of motivation.

A close examination of Herzberg’s model indicates that for those employees who have achieved a level of social and economic progress in the society, higher level needs of Maslow’s model (esteem and self-actualization) are the primary motivators.


They still must satisfy the lower level needs for the maintenance of the current state. So we can say that money might still be a chief motivator for most of the operative employees and also for some low paid managerial people.

Herzberg’s model draws a distinction between the two groups of factors, namely, motivational and maintenance, and points out that the motivational factors are often derived from the job itself.

Most of the maintenance factors come under comparatively lower order needs and motivational factors are somewhat equivalent to higher order needs.

Both models assume that specific needs energize behavior.

Although there are marked similarities in the two models, many differences exist which are shown in the following way:

Differences Between Maslow and Herzberg Theory of Motivation;

Comparison of Maslow and Herzberg Theory of Motivation

IssueMaslow’s ModelHerzberg’s ModelOrder of needsHierarchical arrangement of needs.No such hierarchical arrangement.EmphasisDescriptive.PrescriptiveThe essence of theoryUnsatisfied needs energize behavior; this behavior causes performance.Gratified needs cause performance.MotivatorAny need can be a motivator if it is relatively unsatisfied.Only higher order needs serve as motivators.ApplicabilityTakes a general view of the motivational problems of all workers.Takes a micro-view and deals with work oriented motivational problems of professional workersFactorsThe existence of some factors creates a positive attitude and their non-existence creates a negative attitude.The positive and negative factors are completely different.

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