Transcript Motivation
Motivation Theories of Motivation Theories of Motivation I. II. III. IV. V. VI. 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? Is behavior pushed or pulled? 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 Need (e.g., for food, water) Drive (hunger, thirst) Drive-reducing behaviors (eating, drinking) 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 Yerkes-Dodson Law* Humanistic Theory Self-actualization needs Need to live up to one’s fullest and unique potential • Maslow’s Hierarchy 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 – 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 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 Some questions about motivation . . . Motivation Reflection • Write a 2-3 page reflection about what you think motivates people to do the things they do • Things to consider – – – – – Theories of motivation The Mating Game article Structured observations Class discussion Chapter 12 • Due Monday, March 3rd