Has the Research Challenge to Motivation—Hygiene Theory Been Conclusive? An Analysis of Critical Studies

Abstract

Since its publication, Motivation-Hygiene (M-H) theory (Herzberg, Mausner and Snyderman, 1959) has made a wide impact on the field of job attitudes and motivation. The theory with its implications has produced a large following of proponents as well as a significant number of critics and has created a major controversy in the history of Industrial Psychology. In 1967, Whitsett and Winslow attempted a detailed analysis of research studies critical to M-H theory. They pointed out that many investigations were characterized by methodological flaws, misrepresentation of results and gross misunderstanding of M-H theory. In the last several years, the number of critical articles has not declined. Some old flaws, pointed out by Whitsett and Winslow, have persisted and new issues have emerged. Many of the critical studies have concluded that M-H theory is not valid. Korman (1971), discussing it in a textbook, stated: 'Conclusions by Dunnette, Campbell, and Hakel (1967) based on their work, as well as that of Ewen, et al. (1966), among others, seem to have effectively laid the Herzberg theory to rest in terms of the degree to which it is supported by well-designed studies.' (p. 149).