This document provides an overview of motivation theories including:
- Maslow's hierarchy of needs which identifies physiological, safety, social, esteem, and self-actualization needs. It proposes that lower level needs must be satisfied before higher needs.
- McGregor's Theory X and Theory Y which describe assumptions managers have about employees - Theory X sees employees as lazy and Theory Y sees them as ambitious and self-motivated.
- Herzberg's two-factor theory which identifies motivators related to job content and hygiene factors related to job context that prevent dissatisfaction but don't motivate.
- McClelland's need theory which identifies three needs - need for achievement, power, and affiliation