Theories of Motivation and Behavior: A Public Health Primer

Theory

Description of hypothesized relationships in science.

Observation

Data collection that informs theoretical development.

Construct

Complex idea forming the foundation of theory.

Variables

Measurable constructs used in research.

Measures

Definitions that clarify variables in research.

Behavioral Theories

Theories explaining and predicting human behavior.

Motivation

Internal tendency to behave in specific ways.

Internal Influences

Factors like genes and emotions affecting behavior.

External Influences

Environmental stimuli impacting behavior and motivation.

Individual Variability

Unique behavior resulting from complex factor interactions.

Reinforcement Theory

Behaviorist theory focused on observable behavior changes.

Classical Conditioning

Learning through conditioned responses to stimuli.

Operant Conditioning

Learning based on consequences of behavior.

Self-management Training

Applying operant conditioning to personal behavior change.

Psychoanalytic Theory

Focus on unconscious drives influencing behavior.

Freud's Unconscious Drives

Innate drives as primary motivators of behavior.

Cognitive Psychology

Study of information processing in decision making.

Cognitive Dissonance Theory

Inconsistency between new information and existing beliefs.

Value Expectancy Theory

Decision-making based on beliefs and expected outcomes.

Social Psychology

Study of social influences on individual behavior.

Sociology

Study of group influences on individual behavior.

Self-Determination Theory

Theory emphasizing individual autonomy in motivation.

Social Cognitive Theory

Theory focusing on learning through social observation.

NEO Personality Trait Inventory

Measures five major personality traits.

Myers-Briggs Traits

Personality assessment based on dichotomies.

Cognitions

Stored knowledge influencing behavior and learning.

Feedback

Consequences that inform future behavior.

Health Promotion

Facilitating healthful behaviors and environments.

Socialization

Behavior shaped by social relationships and contexts.

Empirical Understanding

Knowledge based on research and observation.

Behavior Change Methods

Strategies aimed at altering individual behaviors.