Motivation unit 1 Flashcards
What is motivation?
Motivation is the driving force behind change
Why is motivation considered a behavioral science?
It requires objective, empirical evidence from rigorous, peer-reviewed research, not just common sense or opinion.
What are the two fundamental questions in motivation studies?
“What causes behavior?” (what’s the incentive)
“Why does behavior vary in intensity?”
(why some people tend to. go all way in, and others not that much)
Is self-esteem a cause of success?
No, research shows self-esteem is an effect, not a cause of success.
How can incentives negatively impact motivation?
If we give too much incentives or rewards then the effect can be gone as well.
What are the three core elements of motivation?
(or the characteristics of the internal motives)
Energy (strength and resilience)
Direction (goal-oriented behavior)
Persistence (endurance over time).
How can motivation be observed?
Through behavior, engagement, psychophysiology, brain activations, and self-report.
What is the goal of motivation theories?
To explain motivational processes and how they energize, direct and maintain the persistence of behavior.
What does motivational science rely on?
Empirical methods, including testable hypotheses, operational definitions, and statistical analyses.
What are common misconceptions about motivation?
A) Self-esteem: It is an effect of success, not a cause of motivation.
B) Incentives & rewards: Can undermine intrinsic motivation when removed.
What are the three main internal motives?
Needs, cognitions, and emotions.
What are needs, and what are their types?
Needs are essential conditions for survival and well-being.
A) Physiological Needs: Hunger, sleep.
B) Psychological & Social Needs: Power, achievement, belongingness.
What are cognitions?
They are thoughts, beliefs, goals, and self-concept, which shape how people approach tasks.
What are the four components of emotions in motivation?
Feelings, Arousal, Purpose and Expression
(FAPE)
What are feelings?
Subjective experience.
What is Arousal?
Physiological response to a stimulus
What is the Purpose for?
It’s for motivational drive.
What is Expression?
Nonverbal communication.
What are external events in motivation?
Environmental, social, and cultural factors that influence internal motives.
What is psychophysiology?
The study of how the body (brain, nerves, heart, etc.) and the mind (thoughts, emotions, behavior) are connected.
What are some advantages and disadvantages about self report?
Advantages: Is direct, easy and targets a specific motivational aspect
Disadvantages: It can be inconsistent and also can cause a discrepancy
