Introduction to Motivation

Study Notes

Motivation is the internal state that drives a change in oneself or the environment
It is concerned with explaining all forms of behavior and the causes behind them
Motivation assesses internal physiological needs and external situational demands
Important theories try to explain behavior by focusing on instincts and drives, incentives and rewards, and the desire for change in arousal levels
This can apply to mundane activities such as eating and drinking, or adventurous ones such as bungee jumping

Learning about motivation and emotion is personally satisfying and interesting
Understanding what we want and desire, why we want it, and how to improve ourselves is important
Theories help us learn about human nature, goal setting, desires, biological sex, psychological intimacy, and emotions

Motivation science is a behavioral (or social) science.
It relies on objective, data-based, empirical evidence from well-conducted research
Theories are intellectual frameworks that explain phenomena (motivation and emotion)
Theories explain the "why" behind behavior, thought, and feelings

Motivation is a private, unobservable internal experience.
Observable ways to understand motivation are through behavior, engagement, psychophysiology (biological measures), and self-report
Seven aspects of behavior that express motivation include effort, persistence, latency, choice, probability of response, facial expressions, and bodily gestures
Engagement encompasses behavioral, cognitive, and agentic aspects, focusing on task involvement, mental effort, and proactive initiative.
Psychophysiological measures include changes in heart rate, blood pressure, respiration, sweating, hormonal activity, and brain activation
Self-report encompasses questionnaire and interview methods for gaining insights into motivations and emotions

Motivation and emotion are constantly changing due to environmental factors, relationships, activities, and feedback
Corrective actions are needed to adapt and function efficiently in circumstances like these
Motivation and emotion states may change as conditions and interactions change. Supporting circumstances are necessary for individuals to flourish

Motivation is described as involving internal processes like energy, direction and persistence
Energy refers to the intensity and strength of behavior, direction is the purpose and what a behavior is aiming for, & persistence is the consistent state a behavior maintains
Needs, cognitions, and emotions are internal processes necessary for well-being and life
Self-concept, thoughts, feelings related to experiences are also relevant factors