Which theory of motivation focuses on 5 levels of needs, and further separates those needs by lower-order needs and higher-order needs? Choose 1…

Abraham Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs theory proposes that human motivation is based on satisfying five basic needs arranged in a hierarchy: physiological, safety, social, esteem, and self-actualization. Maslow further classified these into lower-order and higher-order needs. Lower-order needs (physiological and safety) are deficiency needs satisfied externally. Higher-order needs (social, esteem, and self-actualization) are growth needs satisfied internally. This two-level classification within the five-tier hierarchy is a defining characteristic of Maslow's theory.

A. McClelland's Theory of Needs: This theory focuses on three non-hierarchical needs: achievement, power, and affiliation.

B. Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory: This theory separates job factors into two categories: hygiene factors (which prevent dissatisfaction) and motivators (which promote satisfaction).

D. Alderfer's ERG Theory: This theory condenses Maslow's five needs into three categories (Existence, Relatedness, and Growth) and does not propose a rigid hierarchy.

1. Maslow, A. H. (1943). A theory of human motivation. Psychological Review, 50(4), 370–396. https://doi.org/10.1037/h0054346 (The original publication outlining the hierarchy).

2. Robbins, S. P., & Judge, T. A. (2018). Organizational Behavior (18th ed.). Pearson. Chapter 7, "Motivation Concepts," pp. 212-214, explicitly describes Maslow's five levels and the distinction between lower-order and higher-order needs.