Final answer:
Alderfer's ERG theory's existence need contrasts with Maslow's hierarchy, where esteem need can motivate a person; hence, the answer is a) Esteem; Physiological.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer to the student's question is that while Alderfer proposed that existence need may motivate a person at one time, Maslow argued that esteem need may motivate a person at one time. Therefore, the answer is a) Esteem; Physiological. Alderfer's ERG theory simplifies Maslow's Hierarchy and groups needs into three categories: Existence, Relatedness, and Growth. Maslow's Hierarchy consists of five different levels: physiological, safety, love/belonging, esteem, and self-actualization. He believed that lower-level needs must be met before higher-level needs can influence behavior.
To Maslow and humanistic theorists, the achievement of one's full potential, 'self-actualization,' is at the top of the needs hierarchy and can only be pursued once the other, more basic needs have been met. Maslow's theory asserts that each level of needs must be satisfied before the next can be addressed. This concept of an orderly progression of needs is a key distinction from Alderfer's approach where multiple needs may motivate at the same time.