A pirâmide de Maslow na motivação do trabalho: um estudo com estudantes de administração de uma IFES pertencentes à Geração Z

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the perceptions of Generation Z students nearing the end of their Administration degree at a federal higher education institution regarding the influence of Maslow's hierarchy of needs as a motivational factor in the workplace. It is grounded in motivational theory—specifically detailing Maslow's hierarchy—and includes a discussion on Generation Z. Methodologically, the study employs a qualitative approach and a descriptive case study design. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with five Generation Z students in their final year of the Administration program at the Federal 3 University of Paraíba (UFPB). The data were analyzed using discourse analysis, identifying the participants' key perceptions regarding workplace motivation across five analyzed categories. The results indicate that, while financial compensation remains a significant motivational factor today, aspects such as recognition, professional appreciation, purpose, the quality of interpersonal relationships, work-life balance, and personal fulfillment strongly influence their motivation and retention within the organizational context. Furthermore, the interviewees advocate for a more flexible interpretation of Maslow's hierarchy in light of the changing nature of work relationships and the expectations held by this new generation. The study concludes that these students perceive Maslow's motivational theory — specifically the hierarchy of human needs —as still exerting a positive influence on their motivation within the work environment.