Following is the detailed discussion on theories of motivation: 

1. Content theories 

Content theories emphasize on the idea that motivation depends upon the individual needs. These theories are also referred as needs theories, because they are focused on the significance of determining 'what' motivates us. Different types of content theories are Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs and Herzberg two-factor theory. 

2. Process theories 

Process theories concentrate on “how” part of motivation. They describe and analyze how behavior is energised, directed and sustained. The different process theories are Expectancy theory and Equity theory. 

3. Reinforcement Theory 

Reinforcement theory is the process of influencing behavior by controlling the consequences of the behavior. The theory is based upon “law of effect” which means an individual tends to repeat behavior which is rewarded while the behavior which gives punishment is not repeated. 

4. Behavioral theories 

For understanding and improving the human behavior, McGregor and William Ouchi suggested Theory X and Y and Theory Z respectively for understanding and improving the human behavior. Theory X emphasize on the importance to supervision, while theory Y stresses on rewards and recognition.