04 Motivational Concepts

After hours of driving alone in an unfamiliar city, you finally see a diner. Although it looks deserted and a little creepy, you stop because you are really very hungry and thirsty. How would Maslow’s hierarchy of needs explain your behavior?

According to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, your behavior is driven by physiological needs (hunger and thirst), which are the most basic and urgent. These needs override concerns about safety (the creepy diner), so you stop to eat despite potential discomfort.

After an 8-hour hike without food, your long-awaited favorite dish is placed in front of you, and your mouth waters in anticipation. Why?

After deprivation (8 hours without food), your body is in a state of heightened physiological need. The sight and smell of food trigger the cephalic phase response, where your brain signals salivation and digestion to prepare for eating.

How have participants reacted in a study where they were made to feel rejected and unwanted? How can you explain these results?

Participants who felt rejected often showed increased aggression, sadness, or emotional numbness. This happens because humans have a strong need to belong, and social rejection threatens this fundamental psychological need, leading to distress and defensive reactions.

What is achievement motivation?

Achievement motivation is the desire to accomplish goals, master tasks, and meet standards of excellence. People high in it strive for success and take pride in their achievements.

What have researchers found to be an even better predictor of school performance than intelligence scores?

Researchers have found that grit (persistence and passion for long-term goals) is often a better predictor of school performance than intelligence scores.

What is the difference between goal intentions and implementation intentions?

• Goal intentions: Focus on what you want to achieve (e.g., “I want to study more”).

• Implementation intentions: Focus on how and when you will act (e.g., “I will study at 6 PM in my room”).

Implementation intentions are more effective because they create a specific action plan.