In Herzberg's two-factor theory, factors that cause dissatisfaction if missing are called?

• A. Hygiene or maintenance factors (Herzberg's)
• B. Motivators (Herzberg's)
• C. Payment by results
• D. Job rotation

Answer: (A)

In Herzberg’s framework, there are two kinds of factors that affect how people feel about their jobs. Hygiene factors are the elements that prevent dissatisfaction when they are present at an adequate level, but their presence doesn’t boost long-term motivation. However, if these hygiene factors are missing or inadequate, employees become dissatisfied. Examples include salary, working conditions, company policies, supervision, and job security. Since the question asks about factors that cause dissatisfaction if missing, hygiene or maintenance factors are the right match. Motivators influence satisfaction when present but don’t cause dissatisfaction if absent, and the other options refer to a pay system or a job-design technique rather than the specific factors described by Herzberg.