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Motivation. Theories of Motivation. Theories of Motivation. Instinct/Evolutionary theory Drive Reduction theory Incentive theory Optimal arousal theory Humanistic theory Cognitive constancy theory. Instinct/Evolutionary. Based on Charles Darwin’s evolutionary theory “Natural selection”
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Motivation Theories of Motivation
Theories of Motivation • Instinct/Evolutionary theory • Drive Reduction theory • Incentive theory • Optimal arousal theory • Humanistic theory • Cognitive constancy theory
Instinct/Evolutionary • Based on Charles Darwin’s evolutionary theory • “Natural selection” • Our goals are to survive and reproduce • Proximate v. ultimate causes
Proximate v. Ultimate Causes Proximate Cause Ultimate Cause
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?
Drive-reducing behaviors (eating, drinking) Need (e.g., for food, water) Drive (hunger, thirst) Drive reduction theory • Behavior is pushed internally • A physiological needcreates 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
Incentive Theory • Behavior is pulled externally • Positive and negative stimuli either lure or repel us • Our individual learning histories determine what motivates us
So which is correct? • We are most driven when there is both a need and an incentive • Intrinsic v. extrinsic motivation
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
Humanistic Theory • Maslow’s 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 Self-actualization needs Need to live up to one’s fullest and unique potential 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
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