Criminal Justice Motivational Theories Matrix

Motivational Theory

Description

How does the theory apply to working in criminal justice and security?

Hierarchy of Needs Theory

This theory explains that every human being is in need of certain needs. These are physiological, safety, social, esteem, and self-actualization.

This theory applies as it provides the physiological part, or providing a pay check to achieve these needs. The criminal justice field can also bring a great deal of esteem to an individual.

Theory X and Theory Y

In the X and Y theory, the X believe that employees dislike work. The Y believes an average person can accept, and seek responsibility.

This theory is effective within group projects to maximine the employees job motivation. When an officer gives employees assigned tasks this coincides with the X theory.

Two-Factor Theory

This theory describes what motivates employees to have job satisfaction and what things bring dissatisfaction.

It allows management to see what gives employees satisfaction with their jobs. Such things such as responsibility and promotion help the employee stay motivated.

McClelland’s Theory of Needs

This theory describes the need for achievement, power, and affiliation.

The criminal justice field provides for all three of these needs. An officer can achieve achievement by completing tasks. He can have power simply by obtaining the badge. And he is affiliated with his department and co-workers, thus fulfilling all three.

Self-Determination Theory

This theory describes that people prefer to have control over their actions as opposed to being forced to complete things, like tasks.

When officers are given freedom to work as they believe is effective, then they are more productive. When they are told to do something they become less motivated to complete it. Giving officers freedom to make their own decisions brings greater productivity within the department.