Final answer:
Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory states that improving hygiene factors can reduce dissatisfaction but does not necessarily increase job satisfaction, which is driven by motivator factors. This statement is therefore false. Job satisfaction is influenced by aspects of work content, autonomy, and involvement in decision-making.
Step-by-step explanation:
To answer the student's question: In Herzberg's view, removing a factor of dissatisfaction makes a person more satisfied with his or her job. This statement is false. According to Frederick Herzberg's Two-Factor Theory of job satisfaction, also known as the Motivator-Hygiene Theory, there are two separate scales impacting job satisfaction and dissatisfaction. Herzberg identified that certain factors known as 'hygiene factors' can lead to job dissatisfaction if not addressed; however, removing or improving these hygiene factors does not increase job satisfaction but simply reduces dissatisfaction. To truly improve job satisfaction, one must focus on 'motivator factors' such as recognition, achievement, or growth opportunities, which provide positive satisfaction.
Research has echoed this differentiation by showing work content, which includes such things as autonomy and role clarity, to be highly predictive of job satisfaction. Conversely, factors like pay, while important, have a weaker correlation with overall job satisfaction (Judge et al., 2010).
To measure job satisfaction, organizational psychology leverages various tools and surveys that can reflect on aspects such as control over work, involvement in decision-making, and freedom from undue surveillance, all of which contribute to higher job satisfaction levels (Kohn et al., 1990; Sunyal et al., 2011). Thus, addressing dissatisfaction alone does not equate to enhanced satisfaction, as both are influenced by different factors within the work environment.