An important difference between Deci and Ryan's versus McClelland's view of needs is:

Deci and Ryan assume that needs are psychological; McClelland assumes that needs are physical.

Deci and Ryan assume that all people have the same innate needs; McClelland assumes that people

have different innate needs.

Deci and Ryan assume that needs are innate; McClelland assumes that needs are acquired through

life experiences.

Deci and Ryan assume that lower$-$level needs must be satisfied before high$-$level needs; McClelland

assumes that all levels of needs are always motivating.