According to Herzberg, what are hygiene needs primarily concerned with?

Hygiene needs, as described by Frederick Herzberg in his Two-Factor Theory of Motivation, are primarily concerned with the factors that prevent dissatisfaction in the workplace. These are essential elements related to the work environment and conditions rather than the work itself. Thus, hygiene needs address aspects such as salary, workplace safety, company policies, and interpersonal relationships that need to be satisfactory to avoid discomfort or dissatisfaction. When these needs are not met, they can lead to feelings of discontent among employees.

This understanding highlights that hygiene needs are about minimizing or avoiding negative experiences or states, which aligns closely with the idea of avoiding pain. In this context, if the hygiene factors are inadequate, employees may feel pain in the form of frustration, dissatisfaction, or even distress, prompting a need for improvements in these areas to foster a more positive and motivating work environment.