Motivation

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Motivation

• Theories of Motivation

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Theories of Motivation

1. Instinct/Evolutionary theory
2. Drive Reduction theory
3. Incentive theory
4. Optimal arousal theory
5. Humanistic theory
6. Cognitive constancy theory

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Instinct/Evolutionary

• Based on Charles Darwins evolutionary theory
• Natural selection
• Our goals are to survive and reproduce
• Proximate v. ultimate causes

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Proximate v. Ultimate Causes
Proximate Cause
Ultimate Cause
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Instinct/Evolutionary

• Why are we attracted to certain people?
• Why do we try to look a certain way?
• Why do we strive for success?
• What makes us take risks?

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Is behavior pushed or pulled?
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Drive reduction theory

• Behavior is pushed internally
• A physiological need creates a psychological
  drive to reestablish homeostasis
• When the physiological need increases, so does
  the psychological drive
• When the need is met, the drive is reduced

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Incentive Theory

• Behavior is pulled externally
• Positive and negative stimuli either lure or
  repel us
• Our individual learning histories determine what
  motivates us

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So which is correct?

• We are most driven when there is both a need and
  an incentive
• Intrinsic v. extrinsic motivation

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Optimal Arousal Theory

• Not all behaviors achieve homeostasis or fulfill
  a need-based drive
• Despite having biological needs satisfied, we
  feel driven to experience stimulation
• Everyone has an optimal level of arousal
• Optimal level is different for everyone and
  situational

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Yerkes-Dodson Law
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Humanistic Theory
Self-actualization needs Need to live up to ones
fullest and unique potential

• Maslows Hierarchy
• Some needs take priority over others
• People are naturally driven to better themselves
• The order of needs is not fixed and can change
  based on the situation

Esteem needs Need for self-esteem, achievement,
competence, and independence need
for recognition and respect from others
Belongingness and love needs Need to love and be
loved, to belong and be accepted need to avoid
loneliness and alienation
Safety needs Need to feel that the world is
organized and predictable need to feel safe,
secure, and stable
Physiological needs Need to satisfy hunger and
thirst
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Cognitive Constancy

• Beliefs that are in opposition often produce
  conflict (cognitive dissonance)
• Behaviors counter to beliefs produce conflict
• The individual is motivated to reduce the tension
  created by conflict
• Tension reduced by changing or modifying beliefs
• Tension reduced by changing or modifying behavior