Motivation system

The word motivation is coined from the Latin word "movere", which means to move. Motivation is defined as an internal drive that activates behavior and gives it direction. The term motivation system is concerned with the processes that spin why and how human behavior is activated and directed. It is regarded as one of the most prominent areas of study in the field of organizational behavior. There are two separate categories of motivation theories such as content theories, and process theories. Even though there are separate motivation theories, none of them are universally accepted.

Also known as need theory, the content system of motivation in general focuses on the internal factors that energize and direct human behavior. Maslow's hierarchy of needs, Alderfer's Erg theory, Herzeberg's motivator-hygiene system (Herzeberg's dual factors theory), and McClelland's learned needs or three-needs system are some of the major content theories.

Of the separate types of content theories, the most noted content system is Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of human needs. Maslow introduced five levels of basic needs through his theory. Basic needs are categorized as physiological needs, protection and protection needs, needs of love, needs for self esteem and needs for self-actualization.

Just like Maslow's hierarchy of needs, Erg system explains existence, relatedness, and increase needs. through dual factors theory, Herzeberg describes positive factors in the workplace which effect in job satisfaction. McClelland's learned needs or three-needs system uses a projective technique called the Thematic Aptitude Test (Tat) so as to evaluate population based on three needs: power, achievement, and affiliation. population with high need of power take operation in a way that influences the other's behavior.

Another type of motivation system is process theory. Process theories of motivation provide an opening to understand plan processes that affect behavior. The major process theories of motivation include Adams' equity theory, Vroom's expectancy theory, goal-setting theory, and reinforcement theory. Expectancy, instrumentality, and valence are the key concepts explained in the expectancy theory. Goal setting system suggests that the individuals are motivated to reach set goals. It also requires that the set goals should be specific. Reinforcement system is concerned with controlling behavior by manipulating its consequences.