Question:

Clayton Alderfer refined Maslow's hierarchy of needs theory. Which of the following are some of the stages of needs proposed by Alderfer?
A. Autonomy needs
B. Growth needs
C. Esteem needs
D. Existence needs
E. Competence needs
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Show Hint

Remember the acronym ERG (Existence, Relatedness, Growth) to easily recall Alderfer's stages.
This prevents confusion with Maslow's five stages or the needs of Self-Determination Theory (Autonomy, Competence, Relatedness).
Updated On: Jul 18, 2026
  • A & amp; C Only
  • B & amp; D Only
  • C & amp; E Only
  • A & amp; D Only
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks us to identify the specific stages of needs proposed by Clayton Alderfer in his refinement of Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs.

Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:

Clayton Alderfer simplified Maslow's five-stage hierarchy into his three-stage ERG Theory.
This theory categorizes human needs into three core levels: Existence, Relatedness, and Growth.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:


Existence Needs: These include the basic physiological and safety needs (such as food, water, and physical security) corresponding to Maslow's first two levels.

Relatedness Needs: These encompass interpersonal relationships and social status, corresponding to Maslow's social and external esteem needs.

Growth Needs: These represent intrinsic desires for personal development, corresponding to Maslow's self-esteem and self-actualization needs.

• Evaluating the options provided in the list:

• A. Autonomy needs - Part of Self-Determination Theory (Deci & amp; Ryan), not Alderfer's theory.

• B. Growth needs - Directly proposed as the 'G' in ERG theory.

• C. Esteem needs - A separate level in Maslow's hierarchy, but grouped under Growth/Relatedness by Alderfer.

• D. Existence needs - Directly proposed as the 'E' in ERG theory.

• E. Competence needs - Part of Self-Determination Theory, not Alderfer's theory.

• Therefore, only B and D represent distinct stages proposed by Alderfer.

Step 4: Final Answer:

The correct combination is B & amp; D Only, which corresponds to option (B).
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