Content and Process Theory

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Working with others
Content and process theory
In this paper, the discussion will be made on the two theories that will be content and process
theories of motivation. The two theories that will be elaborated in the paper are: the process
theory which is Equity theory and the next is the content theory which will be described in
relation to the Maslow hierarchy of needs theory. Equity theory emphasizes on determining
whether the resources are fair in relation to the partners. The equity is measured by comparing
the ration of contributions and benefits offered to the individuals. But on the other hand,
Maslow hierarchy of needs is also the motivational theory that helps to satisfy the basic
requirements of the employees (Miner, 2015). In the first phase of the paper, the theories will
be contrasted and compared with each other. In the second phase, the focus will be given on
the discussion will be on the motivational theories that are used by the managers to influence
the behavior of the employees. The last part will relate with the concluding part that will
summarize the overall points.
The similarities that can be analyzed in relation to Maslow hierarchy of needs and Equity theory
are many such as both the theories focus on the motivation level of the employees and also
how it impacts the behavior of the individuals. In relation to both the theories, the basic needs
of the individuals are considered that helps to drive the individuals in a certain manner. The
other similarities in context to both the theories are a hierarchical framework and also the
primitive requirements at the bottom that are more refined in relation to the needs at the top.
These both theories have one motive related to motivating the employees towards the
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assigned work. In this theory, the emphasis is given on influencing the positive attitude towards
the work (Geller, 2017).
It can be said that there are also various differences that lie between the Maslow hierarchy of
needs and the Equity theory of motivation. In Maslow hierarchy of needs, there are five stages
of motivation such as physiological needs that emphasizes on the basic needs such as food and
clothing. The next stage is safety needs that focus on security and stability. The third stage if
love and belongingness needs that considers trust and friendship. Esteem needs also depend on
the status and prestige given to the employees. The last stage is self-actualization needs in
which personal growth is taken into consideration. On the other hand, Equity theory
emphasizes on the motivation level that is maintained of the employees if they are treated
equally in the workplace. The Maslow of the hierarchy of needs emphasizes on satisfying the
basic needs of the employees but Equity theory is related to the treatment that is given by the
higher authorities to its employees in the workplace (Herzberg, 2017). The difference is that in
Maslow hierarchy of needs the basic requirements are considered of the employees whereas
Equity theory is the equal and fair treatment offered to the employees to boost the motivation.
It is not related to the need of the employees but it emphasizes on offering equal rights to the
employees in the workplace. It can be said that these both theories are important for the
management to motivate the employees towards the allocated task (Pepper & Gore, 2015).
It can be stated that these theories can be sued by the managers to influence the behavior of
the employees towards the work. Process theory of motivation is the equity theory that
influences the behavior of the employees. This theory emphasizes on the idea the very
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