What are the two factors in Herzberg's two-factor theory?

• A. Motivation factors and hygiene factors
• B. Intrinsic factors and extrinsic factors
• C. Motivators and demotivators
• D. Satisficers and dissatisfiers

Answer: (A)

Herzberg’s theory separates what affects job people feel from two distinct kinds: hygiene factors and motivation factors. Hygiene factors are about the working environment and context—salary, company policies, supervision, relationships with coworkers, working conditions, and job security. If these are inadequate, people feel dissatisfied, but improving them beyond a basic level doesn’t boost genuine motivation or long-term satisfaction. Motivation factors relate to the content of the work itself—achievements, recognition, the work being meaningful, responsibility, advancement, and personal growth. Their presence leads to higher motivation and real job satisfaction, while their absence can leave people unmotivated even if hygiene factors are acceptable. So the two factors are motivation factors and hygiene factors. Other term pairs don’t match Herzberg’s terminology: intrinsic/extrinsic is a broader distinction, while motivators and demotivators or satisficers/dissatisfiers aren’t the standard labels used in this theory.