McClelland's Human Motivation Theory identifies which three motivators?

• A. Achievement, Affiliation, Power
• B. Autonomy, Mastery, Purpose
• C. Survival, Belonging, Power
• D. Status, Prestige, Satisfaction

Answer: (A)

McClelland’s theory centers on three fundamental needs that drive motivation: achievement, affiliation, and power. People high in achievement are drawn to challenging tasks, seek clear goals and feedback, and want personal mastery of tasks. Those high in affiliation value friendly, cooperative relationships, harmony, and approval from others. Those high in power want to influence others and have control, with leadership-oriented or organizationally beneficial uses often called socialized power versus personal power. In typical work or school settings, these needs shape how individuals pursue goals, interact with peers, and assume leadership roles. The other options reflect different motivation frameworks: one mirrors intrinsic motivation theories emphasizing autonomy, competence (mastery), and relatedness or purpose; another aligns more with needs related to belonging or status but does not match McClelland’s three.