Question

After joining a highly competitive organization, an employee constantly seeks praise for achievements and status symbols. Which need is most active?

• A. Self-actualization
• B. Esteem
• C. Belongingness
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Esteem

Esteem Needs in Maslow's Hierarchy

The scenario describes an employee driven by the need for Esteem, which is the second highest level in Abraham Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. This need encompasses two categories:

• Ego Needs: Such as confidence, competence, achievement, independence, and mastery. The employee's constant seeking of praise for achievements directly relates to this.

• Status Needs: Such as prestige, recognition, fame, attention, and appreciation. The employee's focus on status symbols aligns with this category.

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs: A Framework

Maslow's theory, developed by psychologist Abraham Maslow, proposes that human beings are motivated by a series of needs, arranged in a hierarchy. Before higher-level needs can be met, lower-level needs must be satisfied. The hierarchy is typically depicted as:

1. Physiological Needs: Basic survival needs (food, water, shelter, sleep).

2. Safety Needs: Security, stability, freedom from fear.

3. Love and Belongingness Needs: Friendship, intimacy, family, sense of connection.

4. Esteem Needs: As described above, the need for self-esteem and esteem from others.

5. Self-Actualization Needs: Reaching one's full potential, creativity, personal growth.

Relevance to Competitive Exams

• Questions related to Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs are common in exams covering Psychology, Human Resource Management, and Organizational Behavior.

• Understanding the different levels and their characteristics is crucial for answering questions about employee motivation, organizational dynamics, and management principles.

• Candidates should be prepared to identify which level of need is being expressed in various scenarios.

Key Characteristics of Esteem Needs in the Workplace

• Recognition: Employees high in esteem needs thrive on acknowledgment for their efforts and contributions.

• Advancement: The desire for promotions and increased responsibility is often linked to esteem needs.

• Feedback: Regular and positive feedback helps satisfy these needs.

• Authority: Holding positions of authority can fulfill the need for recognition and respect.