Theories of Motivation

Instincts

Innate behaviors that are biologically determined and occur automatically in response to certain stimuli.

Drive- Reduction Theory

Motivation arises from biological needs.

Homeostasis

The body's tendency to maintain a balanced internal state, regulating physiological processes to ensure stability.

Ghrelin

A hormone that stimulates appetite and signals hunger to the brain.

Leptin

A hormone that regulates energy balance by inhibiting hunger

Hypothalamus

A region of the brain that plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including hunger, thirst, temperature, and circadian rhythms.

Pituitary Gland

Endocrine gland regulating hormones like Ghrelin and Leptin.

Belongingness

A psychological need for interpersonal relationships, social connections, and acceptance within a group.

Arousal Theory

A theory that suggests motivation is derived from the need to maintain an optimal level of arousal, which can vary among individuals.

Yerkes-Dodson Law

A theory stating that there is an optimal level of arousal for performance, where too little or too much arousal can negatively impact performance outcomes.

Sensation-Seeking theory

Desire for varied and intense experiences.

Thrill Seeking

Pursuit of exciting and risky activities.

Adventure Seeking

Engagement in novel and challenging experiences.

Disinhibition

Reduced restraint leading to impulsive behaviors.

Boredom Susceptibility

Tendency to become easily bored.

Incentive Theory

The theory that behavior is motivated by external rewards and incentives.

Extrinsic Motivation

Motivation from external rewards or pressures.

Self-Determination

Motivation based on autonomy and personal growth.

Intrinsic Motivation

Motivation driven by internal satisfaction.

Lewin’s Motivational Conflicts Theory

A theory that describes how individuals face conflicts between comepting motivations.

Approach-Approach Conflicts

A type of conflict that occurs when an individual is faced with two desirable options, making it difficult to choose between them.

Avoidance-Avoidance Conflicts

A type of conflict that arises when an individual must choose between two undesirable options, leading to stress and indecision.

Approach-Avoidance Conflicts

A type of conflict that occurs when an individual is faced with a single option that has both positive and negative aspects, creating tension in the decision-making process.