Which of the following best describes Motivators?

• A. Prevents dissatisfaction
• B. Creates satisfaction and makes you feel happy
• C. Causes pay raise
• D. Reduces turnover

Answer: (B)

Motivators are intrinsic job factors that raise satisfaction and motivation when they’re present. They relate to the work itself and personal growth—things like achievement, recognition, meaningful work, increased responsibility, and opportunities for advancement. In Herzberg’s two-factor framework, motivators drive positive feelings and engagement, while hygiene factors (like pay, supervision, and working conditions) mainly prevent dissatisfaction but don’t by themselves create lasting motivation.

The best description among the options is that motivators create satisfaction and make you feel happy. Describing motivators as merely preventing dissatisfaction fits hygiene factors, not what actually motivates. Paying a raise is an extrinsic reward but isn’t the core of what motivates in this framework, and reducing turnover is an outcome of motivation rather than the defining nature of motivators. In a criminal justice context, promoting opportunities for advancement or recognizing a officer’s meaningful impact on cases can act as motivators that boost commitment and enthusiasm.