Herzburg's Two-Factor Theory (Hygiene Theory) - Explained
What is Hygeine Theory?
Written by Jason Gordon
Updated at October 18th, 2023
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What is Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory?
The Herzburg two-factor theory, also known as the Hygiene Theory, posits that job satisfaction and dissatisfaction are not opposites. Rather, certain factors must be present to avoid dissatisfaction. Other factors must be present to provide satisfaction.
How Does Satisfaction Relate to Dissatisfaction?
The research underpinning this theory identifies characteristics of jobs that related to job satisfaction - while a different set of job factors lead to dissatisfaction. Thus, eliminating dissatisfaction will not necessarily create satisfaction and vice versa.
How Can Managers Use Hygiene Theory?
The conclusion was that to remove dissatisfaction, the manager must identify and remove the factors causing it. To improve satisfaction, you must add those desired factors. Though, this can only be effective after removing aspects of dissatisfaction.
Back to: BUSINESS MANAGEMENT
What are Hygiene Factors?
Hygiene Factors are dissatisfying factors - as they are part of the context in which the job was performed (rather than functions of the job itself). Common hygiene factors include: work conditions, company policies, supervisions, salary, safety, and security.
What are Motivators?
Motivators are satisfying factors. Motivators, in contrast to hygiene factors, are factors intrinsic to the job. Common hygiene factors include: personal recognition, achievement, engaging work, meaningful responsibilities, career advancement, and personal growth opportunities.
How Does Hygiene Theory Relate to Employee Productivity?
Herzberg's research found that motivators were far more effective in motivating employee productivity. It provided a way to motivate through improved work conditions - which lead to a burgeoning of job enrichment programs.
What are the Negatives of Hygiene Theory?
The primary criticisms of this approach concern the definition of job satisfaction. Also, there are issues in the ability to differentiate hygienes from motivators. In some instances, variations of a factor could be each.
Also, Hygiene Theory fails to address the quality of the relationship between management and subordinates.
