Motivation Profiles

Human motivation comprises three dominant needs: the need for achievement, the need for power, and the need for affiliation. (Wikipedia, 14 September 2005) Those who have the need for achievement can typically be categorized as entrepreneurs. They are encouraged by their independence and the desire to be effective or challenged. These individuals necessitate a need for power and prefer to be in control either socially or personally. Most corporate leaders fall into this category. Others who have a need for affiliation tend to perform well on teams but are not effective leaders since these folks require consistent approval. This paper will hypothesize differences between four individuals who are attempting to obtain a promotion. Ella, who coincides with a biological theory of motivation; Marcelo, who abides by a psychosocial theory of motivation; Masako, who follows an interactionist theory of motivation, and in conclusion Sam, who is motivated by all threes theories. In addition, this paper will speculate on their source of motivation based on the assumptions above. Then explain the main ways in which their sources of motivation and types of effort they would put forth differ from one to another.

Because Ella coincides with a biological theory of motivation she is driven by her will to survive. According to Maslow's hierarchy of motives, Ella is at the bottom of the pyramid. Therefore, Ella is motivated by the fear or incapability of providing for herself and possibly her family. "Maslow's hierarchy can be used to describe the kinds of information that individual's seek at different levels. For example, individuals at the lowest level seek coping information in order to meet their basic needs." (Huitt, 2001). The inability to supply the bear necessities is what drives her and is her fundamental concern. At one point in her life, she may have been poverty-stricken because her father or mother lost his or her employment, which is what triggers her biological motives. If she receives this position, she will continue to strive for more because she has a need to achieve. Ella would be a front-runner for this position but her personal life and emotions may discourage her.

Marcelo, who abides by a psychosocial theory of motivation, is an individual who thrives to be in the spotlight. He continuosly needs to have praise and recognition for whatever he does. Marcelo is not a team player and only looks out for one person, Marcelo. He does not think about the work that comes with the position but rather the recognition and title he can receive. Marcelo has probably been well off most of his life. His parents provided him with whatever he needed and he does not know the value of true work and effort. Because Marcelo has had everything handed to him, he has a "take no prisoner" mentality, which means he will do whatever it takes to get ahead. I did not pick Marcelo because he is not a team player, his need for power and the fact that he only has his best intrests in mind.

Masako follows an interactionist theory of motivation, which means he enjoys socializing with people. Masako probably did not receive a lot of attention as a child therefore; he seeks the attention at work. If you do not see Masoko at his desk, you can almost guarantee he is fraternizing with his co-workers. People take pleasure in mingling with Masoko. In addition, those who work with him feel he is a true team player because he completes his assignments on time and they enjoy his company. Masako does not have any real ambition and does enough work to ensure he maintains his employment. Masako, if offered the opportunity might turn it down because he does not want