Herzberg's theory distinguishes between hygiene factors and motivators. Which statement is accurate?

• A. Hygiene factors prevent dissatisfaction; motivators promote satisfaction and growth.
• B. Hygiene factors prevent growth; motivators prevent dissatisfaction.
• C. Motivators prevent dissatisfaction; hygiene factors promote growth.
• D. Hygiene factors promote growth; motivators prevent dissatisfaction.

Answer: (A)

Herzberg's theory splits factors influencing work into two kinds: hygiene factors and motivators. Hygiene factors relate to the work environment and context—things like salary, supervision, company policies, working conditions, and job security. When these are lacking or inadequate, people become dissatisfied, but simply having them present doesn’t create satisfaction or growth. Motivators, on the other hand, come from the work itself—achievement, recognition, the work’s meaning, responsibility, and opportunities for advancement. When these are present, they boost satisfaction and drive growth. So the statement that hygiene factors prevent dissatisfaction while motivators promote satisfaction and growth is the accurate one. The other options misstate the roles, suggesting hygiene factors promote growth or motivators prevent dissatisfaction, which conflicts with Herzberg’s distinction.