MASLOW THEORY OF MOTIVATION QUIZ

In the blank next to each item, write in the letter of the need being met (or unmet), according to Maslow’s theory of motivation.
A = Self-actualization, B = Esteem, C = Belongingness and Love, D = Safety and Security, E = Physiological. If an example overlaps
multiple needs, choose the primary need involved. Consider the need being met from the point of view of the italicized person or
persons, if it is not readily apparent.

1. ____ Bluestone Corporation holds an annual company picnic for its employees.

2. ____ OSHA fines Princeton Junction Chemical, Inc., for an inoperative safety shower.

3. ____ Dr. Pickens installs a new floor in his dental office that is more comfortable for employees
required to stand for long periods.

4. ____ Ms. Jeter leaves her teaching position to pursue her lifelong dream of professional acting.

5. ____ The new boss informs his salespeople that those not meeting an annual sales’ goal will be
terminated.

6. ____ South Carolina Polytechnic Institute starts a basketball team and distributes free T-shirts
with a new “SCPI Zombies” logo to students, faculty, and staff.

7. ____ Senator Biggerstaff ignores complaints from his constituents that the roads in his district
have become decrepit and dangerous.

8. ____ Leslie, a single-parent, works in the Sheriff’s Office by day, and studies law at night, to
provide a better income for her children.

9. ____ Tameka won her company’s “Employee of the Year” award and was given a plaque and an
additional week’s paid vacation.

10. ____ Wondercar Corporation installs extra bathrooms in its factory, so that employees need not
walk so far and reduce lines.

11. ____ The El Paso Rock Company promotes team building by sending groups of employees on
rafting trips.

12. ____ Marwa makes a point to praise some member of her staff daily for the work they do.

13. ____ Erika was named “Outstanding Psychology Student” at her college and was given a
certificate and a check for $100.

14. ____ Dr. Golson quit a successful medical practice to work with a group providing free health
care in non-industrialized countries.

15. ____ Jonathan and his college friends travel to New York City to attend a rock concert.
SUGGESTED ANSWERS:

1 C Picnic enables employees to socialize

2 D Safety issue
3 E Addresses the physical comfort of workers
4 A Strives to accomplish her dream
5 D Job security
6 C Building a sense of community
7 D Safety issue for citizens
8 A Improving self to help children
9 B Employee recognition
10 E Meeting employees’ basic needs
11 C Team building and socialization
12 B Improving worker self-esteem
13 B Recognition
14 A Striving to accomplish a higher purpose
15 C Meets social needs