Why is it generally difficult to motivate employees to perform their best work using threats and punishment?

• A. Because threats and punishment encourage creative problem-solving and innovation.
• B. Because threats and punishment are the most effective way to build trust between employees and management.
• C. Because threats and punishment often increase stress and anxiety, which can reduce motivation and productivity.
• D. Because threats and punishment always lead to higher job satisfaction and engagement.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the role of motivation in the workplace, which involves encouraging employees to perform their best through positive reinforcement rather than negative consequences.
2. Step 2: Recognize that threats and punishment typically increase stress and anxiety levels among employees, which can interfere with their ability to focus and perform effectively.
3. Step 3: Consider psychological theories such as the Yerkes-Dodson Law, which suggests that too much stress can impair performance rather than enhance it.
4. Step 4: Reflect on how a work environment based on fear or punishment can damage trust and reduce intrinsic motivation, leading to lower productivity and creativity.
5. Step 5: Conclude that because threats and punishment often create negative emotional states, they are generally ineffective for motivating employees to perform their best work.