Final answer:
The statement that is not a way Alderfer's ERG theory differs from Maslow's hierarchy is option C, which suggests that certain types of needs or desires are acquired over an individual's lifetime.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question is asking to identify which statement is not a way in which Alderfer's ERG theory differs from Maslow's hierarchy of needs. According to Maslow's theory, individuals are motivated to satisfy a series of needs that are structured in a hierarchical order, starting with physiological needs and culminating in self-actualization.
To move up the hierarchy, lower-level needs must be satisfied first. Conversely, Alderfer's ERG theory suggests that there are three core needs: Existence, Relatedness, and Growth, and these needs may be met concurrently rather than strictly in sequence.
Options A and B are directly related to Alderfer's ERG theory's differences from Maslow's theory, as Alderfer does not assume that lower-level needs must be satisfied first and claims that different types of needs can be active simultaneously.
Option D is also correct because Alderfer's categories of needs (Existence, Relatedness, Growth) are different from Maslow's (Physiological, Safety, Love/Belonging, Esteem, Self-Actualization).
Option C, which suggests that needs or desires are acquired during one's lifetime, does not represent a difference between Alderfer's and Maslow's theories, as Maslow's hierarchy already accounts for the possibility of developing new needs, such as the need for self-actualization later in life.