Module 34: Introduction to Motivation Unit 10: Motivation Module 34: Introduction to Motivation

Motivation Motive: a need or a want that causes us to act. Motivation: a need or desire that energizes and directs behavior. We will see: 1. Instinct Theory 2. Drive-reduction Theory 3. Arousal Theory 4. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

Theories of Motivation Instinct theory: physical and mental instincts such as curiosity and fearfulness cause us to act. Instincts: inherited automatic species-specific behaviors. i.e. Newly hatched ducks form attachment to 1st moving object they see.

Theories of Motivation Psychologists debate the differences between instincts and reflexes.

Theories of Motivation Need: motivated state caused by physiological deficit. Drive: state of psychological tension induced by need, which motivates us. Drive-Reduction Theory: the idea that a physiological need creates a drive that motivates an organism to satisfy the need.

Theories of Motivation Need (e.g., for food, water) Drive-reducing behaviors (eating, drinking) Drive (hunger, thirst) We have a need for food, water, etc. The drive we experience is hunger, thirst, etc. Drive-Reducing behaviors is eating, drinking, etc.

Theories of Motivation The physiological aim of drive reduction is homeostasis. Homeostasis: the tendency to maintain a balance. Ex. Our body temperature is 98.6 degrees. Our aim is to maintain that temperature or we don’t feel right.

Theories of Motivation Incentive: a positive or negative environmental stimulus that motivates behavior. Incentive theory: beyond the primary motives of food, drink, and sex which push us toward a goal, secondary motives or external stimuli such as money, approval, and grades regulate and pull us toward a goal.

Theories of Motivation Arousal theory: each of us has an optimal level of arousal necessary to perform tasks, which vary with the person and the activity. Arousal: the level of alertness, wakefulness, and activation caused by activity in the central nervous system. We seek an optimal level of arousal.

Theories of Motivation Abraham Maslow: 1908 – 1970 American psychologist. One of the founders of humanistic psychology. Felt people were naturally good and wanted to grow. While jogging, he suffered a severe heart attack and died in California.

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs 1) Basic biological needs 2) Safety and security needs 3) Belongingness and love needs 4) Self-esteem needs 5) Self-actualization needs Only when our basic needs are satisfied can we begin to fulfill other needs.

Theories of Motivation

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs The need for self-actualization, the need to fulfill one’s potential, spiritual fulfillment, are the highest needs and can only be realized after each succeeding need below has been fulfilled. However, this theory lacks evidence to support it fully.