Question

Motivational theory applications argue for recognizing individual differences. They also suggest paying attention to members of diverse groups. Is this a contradiction? Why or why not? Compare and contrast two motivational theories (one content and one process theory) regarding how they can support diversity within teams.

Answer 1

No, the suggestion of paying attention to members of diverse groups and recognizing individual differences is not a contraction because the individual differences “are ways in which people are similar and dissimilar in personal characteristics. Paying attention to members of diverse groups and recognizing individual difference could be beneficial to management in order to understand what motivates people in the workplace and even on a personal level. Understanding employees’ culture could also help the manager understand the choices the employee made in a situation. This way the manager would be able to knowhow to approach the diverse groups. To compare the motivational theories of content and theory, one can use the hierarchy of needs theory to support diversity within teams. The Hierarchy of needs theory is a pathway to satisfaction of Maslow’s higher-order and lower-order needs. Using the content theory, one is identifying different needs that may motivate individual’s behavior. For example, the content theories of motivation on focuses primarily on individual needs, physiological or psychological deficiencies that we feel a compulsion to reduce or eliminate (Uhl-Bien, Shermerhorn, Osborn. (2014) p. 100).The process theory of motivation examines the thought processes that motivate individual behavior. This theory can also support diversity within teams. The three process theories are; equity theory, expectancy theory and goal-setting theory.