Which of the following is considered a hygiene factor in Herzberg's theory?

• A. Pay
• B. Recognition
• C. Interesting work
• D. Responsibility

Answer: (A)

In Herzberg's two-factor theory, the main distinction is between hygiene factors and motivators. Hygiene factors are about the work environment and conditions that prevent dissatisfaction, not about true growth or satisfaction. Pay fits here because inadequate pay can make someone unhappy, but simply increasing pay doesn’t by itself produce lasting, strong motivation. The other options—recognition, the work itself being interesting, and having more responsibility—are motivators, which relate to the content of the job and tend to increase genuine motivation and satisfaction when present.