Heuristic Plot in SYMLOG Space of
Social Motives
(Click image to enlarge)
McClelland's study of needs is more closely related to the SYMLOG Individual and Organizational Values space than many other models addressing social interaction, because the latter tend to focus on behaviors. Thus a parallel may be found between the conflicting demands of the three key needs and the conflicts among the various SYMLOG Individual and Organizational Values. For instance, if the need for achievement is given primary attention, the need for affiliation will likely receive less emphasis.
The parallel between the two theories however is limited. Unlike the SYMLOG bipolar dimensions, McClelland's key needs are unidirectional. When these needs are mapped in the SYMLOG space, they account for activity only in the UPF octant. Need for power is akin to the Upward vector in the SYMLOG space, need for affiliation is akin to the Positive vector, and need for achievement to the Forward vector. Values and behavior that comprise the remaining seven octants of the SYMLOG three-dimensional model are not addressed.
