Topic 8 - A Question of Motivation

specifically combine variables that predict when people are driven (or not) to behave (or not).

encompasses what we choose to do (directing effort), how intensely we do it (mobilizing energy), and how long we keep it up (maintaining effort)

to become one’s best self

posits three universal needs that must be fulfilled in order for people to function optimally autonomy relatedness competence

to feel they have choices and are free to decide what, when, and how to proceed, rather than being forced by rules, deadlines, or evaluation by others

sense of being socially connected and accepted by others; this can take the form of wanting to fit in, following a desired role model, or participating in a broader, meaningful movement

the need to accomplish an action with grace and achieve the desired outcome, as opposed to feeling uninformed, or not having the requisite skills or abilities to achieve success

occurs when the environment stifles need fulfilment

occurs when the environment is supportive. instinctive drive to engage on our own terms in situations that are novel, interesting, have value, and are challenging

When people are extrinsically motivated, they conform to others’ expectations so as to obtain incentives (e.g., money or praise), even if the behaviours are inconsistent with their own values

Values influence beliefs, then beliefs activate personal norms, and it’s this activation of personal norms that is most directly related to behaviour

positions the intention to act as the most direct cause of actual behaviour, and posits that this intention depends on three psychological elements: attitudes, norms, and perceived behavioural control

a motivation theory that identifies perceived control as a critical feature of motivation, but defines it differently. Control is a function of the belief that you have the ability to accomplish a particular action (recall self-efficacy), and the belief that doing so will lead to specific outcomes deemed good, valuable, or otherwise important. valence instrumentality expectancy

The extent to which an outcome is deemed “good, valuable, or otherwise important”

The extent to which one perceives a link between action and outcome

The perceived relationship between effort and likelihood of successfully completing an action

whether “outcomes” such as resources are allocated fairly among people

everyone should receive the same benefit or pay the same cost. Everyone, for instance, should have the same access to, receive the same amount of, or pay the same sum for a resource

People believe a situation is equitable if their contributions and benefits are proportional to someone else’s. People who put in the most time, effort, or money should get the most in return.

a sense of unfairness brings forth negative emotions and feelings of discomfort that lead us to seek change

people are more likely to accept an outcome, even one that is lopsided or disadvantageous, if they believe the process used to get to it was fair

being treated with dignity and respect, is especially important for building trust in ongoing relationships

Goals are a desired end point or future state Goals are extremely effective since they support all three features of motivation: directing our attention, regulating how much energy to put forth, and sustaining momentum over long periods of time

Specific Measurable Attainable Relevant Time-bound