Several theories explain what drives motivation in the workplace. Some of the most influential ones include:
Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs - Suggests that individuals are motivated by a hierarchy of needs starting from basic physiological needs to self-actualization. Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory - Divides motivators into hygiene factors and motivators, where hygiene factors prevent dissatisfaction and motivators lead to satisfaction. McGregor's Theory X and Theory Y - Contrasts two views of individuals: Theory X assumes employees are inherently lazy, while Theory Y assumes they are self-motivated and seek responsibility. Vroom's Expectancy Theory - Proposes that motivation is a function of expectancy, instrumentality, and valence, meaning employees are motivated when they expect their efforts to lead to desirable outcomes.