Motivation Theories and Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs (CH.11)

Instinct theory

Our motivation to behave/act stem from instincts we developed so our species could survive

Criticism of Instinct theory

(1) Instincts fail to explain human motive, they simply name behaviour. (2) Most psychologists believe we are motivated by physiological needs and psychological wants

Drive theory (Clark Hull)

Motivated by our physiological needs

Pros of drive theory

(1) could conduct research/experiements, (2) animal learnt faster when needing to fulfill physiological need

3 Criticisms of drive theory

(1 anorexia) Drive for physiological needs disproven, (2 eating after seeing food) Behaviour doesn't always stem from drive, (3) reducing a drive does not strengthen a behaviour or learning

Incentive/Hedonistic theory

Approach pleasuring stimuli, avoid harmful stimuli

Arousal theory

To balance and achieve an optimal level of arousal, we either seek or avoid arousing environments

Mini theories of motivation

Made more specific to (1) achievement, (2) affiliation, (3) power

Order of Maslow Hierarchy of Needs

physiological, safety, love & belonging , self-esteem, cognitive, aesthetic, self-actualization, transcendance

deficiency needs

Needs fulfilment to avoid failure of lacking basic human needs (bottom four)

being needs

Needs fulfilment to grow happiness: establish purpose, success (top four)

Physiological needs

Biological survival needs: food, water, shelter, clothing, warmth, sex, sleep

Safety needs

Protection by elements: Security, laws, stability.

Love and belonging needs

love and affection from Interpersonal relationships, having affiliation by being in a group

Self-esteem needs

Confident in oneself through achievement. Having self-respect, desire to be respected by others

Cognitive needs

The need to experiment and solve. To have understanding and knowledge

Aesthetic needs

Need for beauty. Having it, creating it, surrounding yourself with it, and appreciating it

self-actualization needs

The need to grow and fulfill your potential as a person

Transcendence

Living for a cause outside of yourself, and working on a cause outside of yourself

Motivation

When we are driven by a need or desire to direct our behaviour to fulfill a goal

Grand Theories of Motivation

First theories of motivation: Instinct theory, and Drive theory