Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Certification Practice Test

Which of the following conclusions is NOT associated with the Hawthorne Experiments?

1. Wages are the primary motivator

2. Work satisfaction comes from friendships

3. Group dynamics influence productivity

4. Taking an interest in a person improves motivation

The correct answer is: Wages are the primary motivator

The conclusion that wages are the primary motivator is not associated with the Hawthorne Experiments. These experiments, conducted in the 1920s and 1930s at Western Electric's Hawthorne Works, primarily focused on understanding how various physical and social factors impacted worker productivity and morale. The findings revealed that employees are motivated by factors beyond just financial compensation. The emphasis was on the social environment, suggesting that work satisfaction stems significantly from interpersonal relationships and the friendships formed among colleagues. This highlights the human element within the workplace, indicating that employees engage more productively when they feel connected and valued as part of a team. Additionally, the studies demonstrated that group dynamics significantly influence productivity, as the interaction within workgroups can affect performance. Finally, the idea that taking an interest in employees, such as through management attention and support, can enhance motivation is a key takeaway from the research. Such insights shifted the focus from purely economic incentives to a broader understanding of worker motivation that includes social and emotional aspects.