Motivation in Psychology

Introduction

• Motivation explored in Unit 4 of AP Psychology.
• Motivation drives actions like getting out of bed, studying, playing games, etc.
• Consists of biological, emotional, social, and cognitive forces.

Types of Motivation

• Primary Needs: Basic biological needs (food, water, sleep).
• Secondary Needs: Psychological needs for social fulfillment (approval, love, belonging).

Motivation in Humans vs. Animals

• Nonhuman animals often rely on instincts (fixed behavior patterns).
• Human behaviors are complex and not just instinctual.

Theories of Motivation

Drive-Reduction Theory

• Behavior driven by the need to maintain homeostasis (balance in bodily functions).
• Example: Hunger leads to eating to restore balance.
• Involves hormones like ghrelin (hunger) and leptin (satiety).
• Hypothalamus and pituitary gland play roles in regulating hunger.

Arousal Theory

• People motivated to maintain an optimal level of arousal.
• Yerkes-Dodson Law: Performance increases with arousal to a point, then decreases.
• Balance between too little stimulation (boredom) and too much (stress).

Self-Determination Theory

• Motivation can be intrinsic (internal) or extrinsic (external).
• Intrinsic: Enjoyment or personal satisfaction.
• Extrinsic: Rewards or avoiding punishment.
• Focuses on personal growth and development.

Incentive Theory

• Behavior driven by extrinsic motivation (external rewards/punishments).
• Emphasizes the role of external validation or rewards.

Sensation Seeking Theory

• Different needs for experiences impact motivation.
• Types:
  • Experience Seeking: Desire for new experiences.
  • Thrill/Adventure Seeking: Engaging in risky activities.
  • Disinhibition: Seeking social/recreational relaxation.
  • Boredom Susceptibility: Tolerance for repetitive experiences.

Kurt Lewin's Motivational Conflict Theory

• Motivation arises when faced with choices.
• Types of conflicts:
  • Approach-Approach: Choice between two positive outcomes.
  • Avoidance-Avoidance: Choice between two negative outcomes.
  • Approach-Avoidance: One choice with both positive and negative aspects.

Conclusion

• Motivation is a complex interplay of various factors.
• Different theories provide insights into intrinsic and extrinsic motivations.
• Practice quizzes available for further study and mastery.