Alderfer's ERG Model

Levels of needs related to Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

A theory of three basic needs linked to Maslow

Motivation is individual, complex and and changes as we seek to satisfy our needs

 

Movement along the motivation levels

Clayton Alderfer developed a revised version of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs in 1969.

The model is a useful view of motivation and is backed by empirical evidence.

Alderfer created three levels of motivation and called it the ERG theory:

  • E Existence
  • R Relatedness
  • G Growth

These can be mapped back to Maslow's 5 levels of need.

Alderfer's theory is useful and demonstrates some important findings about how we as individuals move up and down the levels of the model and seek satisfaction of needs.

The model shows how different levels are all operative at the same time and a frustration dimension can be in operation forcing us to seek more satisfaction of goals and needs at a lower level when blocked at a higher level. This is often called the frustration-regression element.

Motivation and performance in the workplace are strongly tied together.  As a leader it is important to understand motivational theories and how these help you understand you own and others' behaviour and performance outcomes.

The model suggests that motivation is very personal and complex and always moving.

It also shows that a 'one size fits all' approach to motivating employees will be less than optimum due to the individual and changing levels of needs that an individual experiences.

In terms of self development it is useful to examine this theory then ask yourself what level you are at and what is motivating you at present.  You can also look at your needs and assess how they will continue to be satisfied.

As a leader, examine your team members' performance and seek to understand if needs are being met, and if so at what level.

It will also be interesting for you to examine the performance of the individuals who work for you and look to see if frustrations are causing them to regress down the levels and seek new satisfaction and meet changed needs.

Use the presentation below to understand more about motivation and build your knowledge of motivational theories.

Join and continue to the detailed presentation on Alderfer's ERG model

See also: 
Heron's Six Categories of Interventions
Locke's Goal Theory
Porter and Lawler's Expectancy Model
Vroom's Expectancy Theory

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